Understanding how heart immune cells change during sepsis-related heart damage
Official title: Cardiac Macrophage Plasticity in Sepsis-induced Cardiomyopathy
Funded at Loyola University Chicago · NIH-10873794 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a certain receptor in the heart helps immune cells change their roles during sepsis, with the hope of finding new ways to improve heart function for people dealing with this serious condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Loyola University Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Maywood, United States) |
| Project start | June 22, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $233,878 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178434-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10873794 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have experienced sepsis and are at risk for heart complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of sepsis or related heart conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific receptor, GHS-R, in how immune cells in the heart adapt during sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy. By using both laboratory and animal models, the study aims to uncover how these immune cells can switch between different functions, which may lead to inflammation or repair. The goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies that could improve heart function in patients suffering from sepsis. The findings could provide insights into the complex interactions between metabolism and immune responses in the heart.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve heart function and reduce complications for patients with sepsis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell behavior in other inflammatory conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Loyola University Chicago
Maywood, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zang, Qun Sophia — Loyola University Chicago
- Study coordinator: Zang, Qun Sophia
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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.