Investigating how extracellular vesicles affect brain metabolism and immunity in septic encephalopathy
Official title: The role of extracellular vesicles in septic encephalopathy metabolism and immunity
Funded at Children's Research Institute · NIH-10995307 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny particles from special stem cells might help kids with septic encephalopathy, a serious brain condition, by boosting brain energy and calming inflammation, which could lead to new treatments for this tough illness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | December 6, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $227,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS135088-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995307 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who are experiencing septic encephalopathy or related brain injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing septic encephalopathy or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on septic encephalopathy, a severe brain condition that can occur in children, characterized by a significant energy crisis in the brain and inflammation. The study aims to explore how extracellular vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells can improve brain energy levels and reduce inflammation. By using a mouse model, researchers will analyze the specific molecules within these vesicles that may help protect brain cells and restore normal function. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating this life-threatening condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that significantly improve outcomes for children suffering from septic encephalopathy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles for neuroprotection, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
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Children's Research Institute
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koutroulis, Ioannis — Children's Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Koutroulis, Ioannis
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.