Understanding heart cell problems in children with severe infections
Official title: Mechanisms of cardiomyocyte dysfunction in pediatric septic shock
Funded at Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-11007260 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how severe infections can affect the heart cells of children in septic shock, and it aims to use heart cells from these kids to better understand why some have heart problems during their illness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $192,024 |
| NIH project number | 5K08GM148957-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11007260 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who are experiencing septic shock.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing septic shock or are over 11 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how heart cells, known as cardiomyocytes, are affected during severe infections in children, specifically those experiencing septic shock. The team aims to create a model using heart cells derived from patients to better understand the biological mechanisms behind heart dysfunction in these cases. By analyzing serum samples from children with and without heart dysfunction, the researchers hope to identify factors that contribute to these issues. This approach focuses on using patient-derived materials to improve the relevance of findings to human health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for heart dysfunction in children suffering from septic shock.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using patient-derived models to study heart dysfunction, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lautz, Andrew John — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Lautz, Andrew John
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.