Improving the immune response to help patients survive sepsis

Enhancing Innate and Adaptive Immunity to Improve Sepsis Survival

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11076805

This study is looking for ways to boost the immune system in older adults with sepsis, a serious infection-related condition, by testing new treatments that could help them recover better and improve their chances of survival.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11076805 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing both innate and adaptive immunity in patients suffering from sepsis, a severe condition often resulting from infections. The study aims to understand how the immune system weakens, particularly in older adults, and to develop therapies that can reactivate the immune response during the critical immunosuppressive phase of sepsis. By investigating the role of latent viruses and the body's inflammatory response, the research seeks to identify effective treatment protocols that could improve survival rates. Patients may be involved in clinical trials that test these new therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are experiencing sepsis or are at high risk for developing sepsis.

Not a fit: Patients who are not elderly or those who do not have sepsis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase survival rates for patients suffering from sepsis, particularly among the elderly.

How similar studies have performed: There is emerging evidence from animal studies and small clinical trials suggesting that enhancing immune responses in sepsis could be effective, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.