Understanding how red blood cells affect immune responses in sepsis

Investigating the function of RBC-TLR7 in Sepsis

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11024759

This study is looking at how red blood cells help the immune system during sepsis, a serious infection, by seeing how they interact with RNA in the blood, which could help us find better ways to treat patients with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11024759 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of red blood cells (RBCs) in the immune response during sepsis, a severe condition caused by infection. The study focuses on how RBCs, through a receptor called TLR7, interact with RNA in the bloodstream and influence inflammation. By analyzing samples from critically ill patients with sepsis, the researchers aim to uncover how RBCs can trap RNA and potentially dampen harmful immune reactions. This could lead to new insights into managing sepsis and improving patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are critically ill patients diagnosed with sepsis.

Not a fit: Patients with sepsis who are not critically ill or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for sepsis, potentially reducing mortality rates associated with this critical condition.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in sepsis, but the specific role of RBC-TLR7 is a novel area of investigation.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.