Understanding how certain brain cells affect cognitive problems after sepsis
Official title: The Role of Pericytes in the Vascular Dysfunction of Sepsis
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11056124 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called pericytes might affect thinking problems that can happen after sepsis, with the hope of finding better treatments for people who struggle with their memory and thinking after recovering from this serious infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $377,539 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM149203-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056124 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have survived sepsis and are experiencing cognitive difficulties or mental health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced sepsis or do not have cognitive impairments related to sepsis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of pericytes, specialized cells in the brain, in the cognitive impairments that can occur after sepsis. By using animal models, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind these cognitive issues and how pericytes contribute to maintaining brain health during and after sepsis. The researchers will explore how changes in pericyte function may lead to problems with blood flow and brain barrier integrity, which are critical for cognitive function. Ultimately, the goal is to develop targeted treatments to improve outcomes for sepsis survivors who experience cognitive decline.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help prevent or reduce cognitive impairments in patients who have survived sepsis.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of pericytes in sepsis-related cognitive impairment is still being explored, similar studies have shown promise in understanding the impact of brain cell function on cognitive health.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fan, Hongkuan — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Fan, Hongkuan
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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.