Quick detection of germs causing sepsis from blood samples
Official title: Rapid Culture-Independent Detection of Sepsis Causing Microorganism Directly from Blood
Funded at University of Massachusetts Amherst · NIH-11126801 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, quicker way to find out which germs are causing sepsis from blood samples, so doctors can start the right treatment much faster—within about two hours—helping patients get better sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Massachusetts Amherst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hadley, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $406,041 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM155460-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11126801 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are hospitalized patients who are showing signs of severe sepsis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not hospitalized or do not exhibit symptoms of sepsis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a fast and accurate method to identify the microorganisms that cause sepsis directly from blood samples, without the need for traditional blood cultures. By utilizing advanced nanopore and click-chemistry techniques, the goal is to provide results in about two hours, significantly reducing the time it takes to start appropriate antibiotic treatment. This approach aims to improve patient outcomes by allowing for timely and targeted therapy, which is crucial in managing sepsis effectively. The study will incorporate automated sample preparation and assay methods to streamline the process.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more precise treatment for patients with sepsis, potentially reducing mortality rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using molecular diagnostic technologies for pathogen identification, but this approach aims to innovate beyond existing methods.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Hadley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Chang — University of Massachusetts Amherst
- Study coordinator: Liu, Chang
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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.