Investigating how lactate affects heart function during sepsis
Official title: Novel Role of Lactate for Cardiovascular Dysfunction in Sepsis
Funded at East Tennessee State University · NIH-10609873 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | East Tennessee State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Johnson City, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2020 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $548,559 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL153270-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10609873 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with sepsis who exhibit elevated lactate levels.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have sepsis or those with other unrelated cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Chuanfu — East Tennessee State University
- Study coordinator: Li, Chuanfu
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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.