Investigating genetic factors in severe pediatric sepsis and related organ dysfunction
Official title: Genetic Variants of Immune Dysregulation and Thrombotic Microangiopathy in Severe Pediatric Sepsis Induced Organ Dysfunction
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11085134 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes might make kids more likely to get severe sepsis and its complications, with the goal of finding ways to better understand and treat these conditions in young patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $163,188 |
| NIH project number | 5K23GM148827-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085134 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pediatric patients under 11 years old who have experienced severe sepsis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are adults or those without a history of severe sepsis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how genetic variations contribute to severe pediatric sepsis and its associated complications, such as thrombotic microangiopathy and immune dysregulation. By utilizing whole exome sequencing, the study aims to identify specific genetic markers that may increase the risk of these conditions in children. The findings could help in recognizing patterns of organ injury and inflammation during severe sepsis, ultimately leading to better patient management. The research will validate these genetic associations across multiple cohorts of septic patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved identification and treatment strategies for children at risk of severe sepsis and its complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying genetic factors related to immune responses in sepsis, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kernan, Kathryn — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Kernan, Kathryn
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.