Understanding how gut and blood microbes affect the immune system in sepsis

Unraveling effects of gut and blood microbial signatures on immune phenotypes and organ dysfunction in sepsis

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11022137

This study is looking at how the germs in your gut and blood work together and affect your immune system when you have sepsis, with the hope of finding new ways to help improve treatment for this serious condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11022137 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex interactions between gut and blood microbial communities and their impact on immune responses in patients with sepsis. By analyzing microbial signatures and their effects on immune phenotypes, the study aims to uncover how these interactions contribute to organ dysfunction during sepsis. The approach includes advanced sequencing techniques to identify specific microbial products and their roles in immune signaling. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance our understanding of sepsis and inform potential therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with sepsis who are experiencing critical illness.

Not a fit: Patients with non-sepsis related critical illnesses or those who are not critically ill may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve immune responses and reduce mortality in sepsis patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in immune responses, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.