Understanding how high mechanical stress affects immune cells in heart and lung support devices
Official title: High Mechanical Shear Stress-Induced Neutrophil Dysfunction in Mechanically Assisted Circulation
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10991696 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the strong forces from heart support devices, like VADs and ECMO, might affect the immune system of patients, especially how it could make them more prone to infections, so we can find ways to keep them safer and healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $516,895 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL171120-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991696 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing treatment with mechanical circulatory support devices for advanced heart or respiratory failure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not using mechanical circulatory support devices or those with non-cardiac related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of high mechanical shear stress on neutrophil function in patients using mechanical circulatory support devices like ventricular assist devices (VADs) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The study aims to uncover how the mechanical forces from these devices can impair immune cells, potentially leading to increased infections in patients. By analyzing blood samples and immune responses, the research seeks to identify the mechanisms behind this dysfunction and improve patient outcomes. The findings could help enhance the safety and effectiveness of these life-saving technologies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing infections in patients using mechanical heart and lung support devices.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the immune response in patients with mechanical support can lead to better management of complications, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Zhongjun Jon — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Wu, Zhongjun Jon
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.