Investigating adrenal insufficiency as a risk factor for sepsis

Relative adrenal insufficiency as a risk factor and an endotype for sepsis

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-11075836

This study is looking at how low levels of certain hormones from the adrenal glands might affect people with sepsis, a serious illness, to see if better treatments can be developed to help them recover.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11075836 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how relative adrenal insufficiency affects patients with sepsis, a severe condition with a high mortality rate. It focuses on understanding the role of glucocorticoids, hormones produced by the adrenal glands, during sepsis and how their insufficient production can impact patient outcomes. By using a unique animal model, the study aims to clarify the relationship between adrenal function and sepsis severity, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies. The findings could help determine the effectiveness of glucocorticoid therapy in septic patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients diagnosed with sepsis who may also exhibit signs of adrenal insufficiency.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have sepsis or adrenal insufficiency are unlikely to benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatment protocols for sepsis, potentially reducing mortality rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using similar approaches in understanding adrenal function in sepsis, but this specific model is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, 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.