Understanding how metabolism affects inflammation during severe bacterial infections

Defining the mitochondrial metabolic regulation of systemic innate inflammation

NIH-funded research University of Tennessee Knoxville · NIH-11117048

This study is looking at how changes in the body's metabolism during severe bacterial infections, like septicemia, affect important immune cells called neutrophils and their ability to fight off infections, with the hope of finding ways to help patients recover better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tennessee Knoxville NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Knoxville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11117048 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between metabolic processes and inflammation in the context of severe bacterial infections, particularly septicemia. It focuses on neutrophils, which are key immune cells, and how their function is influenced by metabolic changes during infection. The study aims to explore how excess lactate, produced during septicemia, impacts a specific cell death process called NETosis, which is crucial for fighting infections but can also cause tissue damage. By examining these mechanisms, the research seeks to provide insights into improving immune responses and patient outcomes during severe infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing severe bacterial infections, particularly those at risk of developing septicemia.

Not a fit: Patients with non-bacterial infections or those not experiencing severe inflammatory responses may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing immune responses and reducing tissue damage in patients with severe bacterial infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of metabolic processes in immune responses, indicating that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Knoxville, 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.
Conditions bacteria infectionbacterial diseaseBacterial Infections
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.