Investigating how lactate affects heart function during sepsis

Novel Role of Lactate for Cardiovascular Dysfunction in Sepsis

NIH-funded research East Tennessee State University · NIH-10609873

This study is looking at how high levels of lactate, a substance that can build up during severe infections like sepsis, might hurt heart and blood vessel function, and it aims to find ways to lower lactate to help improve heart health and survival for patients dealing with sepsis.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEast Tennessee State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Johnson City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10609873 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of lactate in causing cardiovascular dysfunction in patients with sepsis, a severe response to infection. It examines how high levels of lactate can lead to worsening heart and blood vessel function, potentially increasing the risk of death. The study uses animal models to understand the mechanisms behind lactate's effects and tests whether reducing lactate production can improve heart function and survival rates. By identifying the relationship between lactate levels and heart health, the research aims to develop new treatment strategies for sepsis-related cardiovascular issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with sepsis who exhibit elevated lactate levels.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have sepsis or those with other unrelated cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with sepsis, potentially reducing mortality and enhancing heart function.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated that targeting lactate levels can improve outcomes in critically ill patients, suggesting a promising avenue for further investigation.

Where this research is happening

Johnson City, 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 2026-06-09 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.