Understanding how sepsis affects heart metabolism

Regulation of Cardiac Metabolic Plasticity in Sepsis

['FUNDING_R21'] · LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO · NIH-10629401

This study is looking at how a protein called PDK4 affects heart problems that can happen during sepsis, with the hope of finding new ways to help protect the heart for people who are dealing with sepsis.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorLOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MAYWOOD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10629401 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a specific protein, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4), in how sepsis leads to heart problems. By studying both laboratory models and animal subjects, the research aims to uncover how PDK4 contributes to metabolic issues in the heart during sepsis. The goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies that could protect the heart from damage caused by sepsis. If successful, this could lead to better treatments for patients suffering from sepsis-related heart complications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients experiencing sepsis, particularly those showing signs of heart dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients with sepsis who do not exhibit cardiac issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve heart function in patients with sepsis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in sepsis, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

MAYWOOD, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Disease, Disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.