NIH-funded research R21 grant

Understanding how a specific molecule affects immune cells during sepsis

Official title: Methylglyoxal-induced macrophage metabolic dysregulation in sepsis

Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10738776 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a specific immune cell called macrophages reacts during sepsis, a serious infection, and how a molecule called methylglyoxal affects these cells, with the hope of finding new ways to help patients recover better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Maryland Baltimore
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project startNovember 10, 2022
Project endOctober 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$193,125
NIH project number5R21AI174374-02
Project IDNIH-10738776 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sepsis or septic shock.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-infectious inflammatory conditions may not receive benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of macrophages, a type of immune cell, in the body's response to sepsis, a severe infection that can lead to organ failure. The study focuses on how a molecule called methylglyoxal alters the metabolism of these macrophages, potentially leading to increased inflammation and tissue damage. By examining the changes in macrophage behavior and metabolism during sepsis, researchers aim to identify new therapeutic targets that could improve patient outcomes. The approach includes laboratory experiments that simulate sepsis conditions to observe macrophage responses.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better manage inflammation and improve survival rates in sepsis patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting macrophage metabolism can lead to improved outcomes in inflammatory diseases, suggesting this approach may be promising.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Maryland Baltimore
    Baltimore, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Vogel, Stefanie N. — University of Maryland Baltimore
  • Study coordinator: Vogel, Stefanie N.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.