Using RNA aptamers to block harmful proteins in sepsis

Neutralizing Circulating Histones With an RNA Aptamer to Prevent MultiorganDysfunction in Sepsis

NIH-funded research Veterans Health Administration · NIH-10920633

This study is looking at a special treatment called KU7 that might help protect organs and improve survival for people with sepsis by blocking harmful proteins in the blood.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVeterans Health Administration NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10920633 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of RNA aptamers to neutralize circulating histones, which are proteins that can cause severe organ dysfunction during sepsis. The approach involves administering a specific RNA aptamer, known as KU7, which has shown promise in laboratory settings by preventing harmful cellular responses triggered by histones. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of KU7 in reducing organ damage and improving survival rates in an animal model of sepsis, providing insights that could lead to new treatments for patients suffering from this critical condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with severe sepsis or at high risk of developing sepsis.

Not a fit: Patients with mild infections or those not experiencing sepsis-related complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel treatment that significantly reduces organ dysfunction and mortality in patients with sepsis.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of RNA aptamers is a relatively novel approach in treating sepsis, preliminary studies have shown promising results in laboratory settings, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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 Acute Respiratory Distress SyndromeAdult Respiratory Distress Syndrome
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.