Understanding how trauma and blood loss increase the risk of sepsis

Mechanism of Trauma/Hemorrhagic Shock-Predisposed Sepsis

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11099937

This study is looking at how a specific substance in the body, called 12(S)-HETE, might help us understand why people who have had severe injuries and blood loss are more likely to get serious infections like sepsis, so we can find better ways to protect those patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11099937 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which severe trauma and hemorrhagic shock can lead to an increased risk of sepsis, a life-threatening infection. The study focuses on a specific metabolite, 12(S)-HETE, and its role in regulating inflammation and immune response in patients who have experienced trauma. By examining how this metabolite affects the expression of the ALOX15 enzyme, the research aims to identify potential targets for preventing sepsis in at-risk patients. The approach includes analyzing blood samples from trauma patients to understand the relationship between 12(S)-HETE levels and infection susceptibility.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced severe trauma or hemorrhagic shock and are at risk of developing sepsis.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced severe trauma or hemorrhagic shock may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing sepsis in patients who have suffered severe trauma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that understanding the role of specific metabolites in trauma patients can provide valuable insights, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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 →

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.