Understanding blood transfusions in children with septic shock
Official title: Transfusion and Organ Dysfunction in Pediatric Septic Shock (TROPICS) study
Funded at Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp · NIH-11055300 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how red blood cell transfusions can help children with septic shock, and it aims to find out which kids might benefit the most from these transfusions by looking at different health factors, so we can make better decisions about their treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, United States) |
| Project start | March 20, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $614,829 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL157208-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055300 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are experiencing septic shock.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing septic shock or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how red blood cell (RBC) transfusions affect children suffering from septic shock, a severe condition that can lead to organ dysfunction. The study aims to identify which children are most likely to benefit from transfusions by analyzing various physiological and blood product factors, rather than relying solely on hemoglobin levels. By developing decision support tools, the research seeks to personalize transfusion strategies to improve outcomes for pediatric patients. The approach includes collecting data on hemodynamic measures and the characteristics of blood products used in transfusions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective blood transfusion practices for children with septic shock, potentially reducing adverse outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that personalized approaches to transfusion can improve patient outcomes, suggesting that this study builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Muszynski, Jennifer — Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp
- Study coordinator: Muszynski, Jennifer
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Pragmatic midodrine trial to reduce ICU vasopressor use in septic shock
A practical, patient-focused trial tests whether taking oral midodrine can lessen the need for IV vasopressors and shorten ICU stays for people with sepsis-related low blood pressure.
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Personalized vasopressor therapy for septic shock
A clinician-scientist at Cleveland Clinic aims to tailor vasopressor treatment for septic shock patients using patient-specific factors.
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Angiotensin-based treatment strategy in septic shock
A clinical trial will compare giving Angiotensin II versus standard norepinephrine to support blood pressure in septic shock patients, aiming to improve outcomes.
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Percutaneous stellate ganglion stimulation to support blood pressure in septic shock
A small, portable neuromodulation device would be tested to help people with septic shock maintain blood pressure while doctors adjust medicines.
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Macrophage metabolism and septic shock in humans
A study at Boston Children’s Hospital will explore how immune cells’ metabolism affects severe infection (septic shock) and whether targeting this metabolic pathway could help patients.
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Blood transfusions and organ failure in children with septic shock
This project looks at how a child’s circulation, immune status, and the type of red blood cells given affect recovery and organ problems during septic shock in young children.
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.