Investigating how lactate affects immune function in sepsis
Official title: Novel Role of Lactate in Sepsis Impaired Immune Function
Funded at East Tennessee State University · NIH-11000337 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how high levels of lactate in the body might affect the immune system of people who survive sepsis, with the goal of finding ways to help them stay healthier and reduce the risk of future infections.
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 | December 12, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $559,034 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI174020-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000337 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced sepsis and are at risk for long-term immune dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced sepsis or those with other unrelated immune disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of lactate in sepsis, a severe condition that disrupts the body's immune response. It aims to understand how elevated lactate levels may contribute to long-term immune dysfunction in sepsis survivors, potentially leading to higher mortality rates from infections. The study involves analyzing cellular responses, particularly focusing on macrophages, which are crucial for immune defense. By examining how lactate influences these immune cells, the research seeks to uncover new insights into improving outcomes for sepsis patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance immune function in sepsis survivors, potentially reducing mortality from subsequent infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has indicated that targeting metabolic pathways, like lactate metabolism, can improve immune responses, suggesting potential success for this approach.
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
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.