Using senolytic drugs to slow down sepsis progression in older patients

Senolytics To slOw Progression of Sepsis (STOP-Sepsis) trial

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10909847

This study is looking at whether a drug called fisetin can help older patients in the hospital with serious infections by reducing harmful cells that can make their condition worse, and participants will either get the drug or a placebo to see which works better.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10909847 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of senolytic drugs, specifically fisetin, to reduce the number of senescent cells in older patients who are hospitalized with acute infections. These senescent cells can contribute to inflammation and worsen outcomes in sepsis, a serious condition that can lead to organ failure. The study will involve a multi-center, randomized trial where participants will receive either fisetin or a placebo to determine the most effective dose for reducing these harmful cells. By understanding how fisetin works in humans, the research aims to improve treatment options for older patients facing sepsis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are hospitalized with acute infections but do not yet require mechanical ventilation or vasopressors.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger or those who are already in severe stages of sepsis requiring intensive interventions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve recovery and outcomes for older patients suffering from sepsis.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of senolytic drugs is a novel approach in treating sepsis, preclinical models have shown promising results, indicating potential for success in human trials.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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.