Investigating how a protein affects liver failure during sepsis
Official title: The role of C/EBPß in sepsis associated acute-on-chronic liver failure
Funded at University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-11134516 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how infections can suddenly worsen liver problems in people who already have liver issues, using a special mouse model to explore how certain proteins affect liver health, with the hope of finding better treatments for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project start | July 8, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $193,751 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178204-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134516 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic liver disease who are at risk of developing acute-on-chronic liver failure due to sepsis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute liver failure not associated with chronic liver disease or sepsis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), particularly how sepsis can lead to sudden liver dysfunction in patients with pre-existing liver conditions. Using a newly developed mouse model, the study examines the role of C/EBPβ and angiopoietins in liver cell function and survival during sepsis. By analyzing the changes in liver function and cell signaling pathways, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind ACLF and identify potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for liver failure associated with sepsis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve liver function and survival rates in patients experiencing sepsis-related liver failure.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been limited mechanistic research on ACLF, the use of animal models to study similar conditions has shown promise in understanding liver dysfunction.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kansas Medical Center
Kansas City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tikhanovich, Irina — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Tikhanovich, Irina
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Role of blood flow mechanics and transfusion in sepsis-related tiny-cl vessel clots
A patient-focused look at how red blood cell flow and transfusions might influence tiny blood vessel clots and organ problems in sepsis.
-
STeroids and enhanced Antibiotics for sepsis in Africa with HIV/TB (STARS)
This grant tests whether adding steroids and stronger antibiotics helps adults with severe sepsis tied to HIV/TB in areas with high TB rates.
-
Steroids and better antibiotics for sepsis in people with AIDS in Africa
This study tests whether adding hydrocortisone and stronger antibiotics can improve survival for adults with sepsis who also have AIDS or advanced immune suppression in regions with high TB.
-
Coordinating ARDS, Pneumonia, and Sepsis research to improve care
A national coordinating center helps researchers studying ARDS and related infections work together more efficiently to learn what helps patients recover.
-
Role of MMP3 in heart dysfunction during sepsis
This research tests whether blocking MMP3 can protect the heart and improve survival during sepsis in adults.
-
Sepsis patient care guided by Ugandan-wide immune profiling
A large NIH-funded study will map how the immune system behaves during sepsis in people in Uganda to improve personalized care for sepsis patients.
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.