Understanding how DNA methylation affects immune recovery after sepsis
Official title: Analyzing the long-term effects of DNA methylation meditated immunosuppression following sepsis
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-11392537 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how epigenetic changes after sepsis can weaken the immune system and affect long-term health in survivors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 10, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $393,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150968-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11392537 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults who have survived sepsis and are experiencing immune suppression or related long-term complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without sepsis history or those not experiencing immune-related issues after sepsis may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This five-year program will explore how DNA methylation changes during sepsis lead to immune suppression and poorer outcomes after discharge. The study connects lab findings on epigenetic regulation with real-world clinical and psychosocial outcomes in sepsis survivors. By aligning mechanistic biology with patient data, the project aims to identify targets that could improve long-term recovery and reduce complications. The work builds on prior NIH training to unify scattered lines of evidence into a cohesive picture of post-sepsis immunosuppression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could inform new strategies to improve immune function and overall recovery for sepsis survivors.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work has shown links between epigenetic changes and immune function in sepsis, but this project seeks to integrate and extend those findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wisler, Jon R — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Wisler, Jon R
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Sepsis-related DNA changes that may cause long-term immune weakness
This research looks at whether changes to DNA after sepsis lead to lasting immune weakness in people who survive sepsis.
-
Understanding how DNA changes affect immune function after sepsis
This study is looking at how changes in your DNA after surviving sepsis can affect your immune system and overall health, with the hope of finding ways to help sepsis survivors feel better and stay healthier in the long run.
-
Role of blood flow mechanics and transfusion in sepsis-related tiny-cl vessel clots
A patient-focused look at how red blood cell flow and transfusions might influence tiny blood vessel clots and organ problems in sepsis.
-
STeroids and enhanced Antibiotics for sepsis in Africa with HIV/TB (STARS)
This grant tests whether adding steroids and stronger antibiotics helps adults with severe sepsis tied to HIV/TB in areas with high TB rates.
-
Steroids and better antibiotics for sepsis in people with AIDS in Africa
This study tests whether adding hydrocortisone and stronger antibiotics can improve survival for adults with sepsis who also have AIDS or advanced immune suppression in regions with high TB.
-
Coordinating ARDS, Pneumonia, and Sepsis research to improve care
A national coordinating center helps researchers studying ARDS and related infections work together more efficiently to learn what helps patients recover.
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.