Mitochondrial assessment in critical ill patients in intensive care
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Metabolic characterisation of critically ill patients: an observational study focusing on mitochondria
IRAS ID
342981
Contact name
Ahilanandan Dushianthan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University Hospitals of Southampton NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
Critically ill patients often require admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) frequently as a result of a severe infection, major surgery, or significant trauma and will require organ support. When patients develop multiple organ failures, they will need a prolonged period of ICU admission, during which there is an increased chance of dying in the ICU. About 50% will go on a breathing machine (ventilator) to support their breathing while allowing their primary illness to get better. However, when patients develop organ failures and end up on a ventilator, there are changes in the body's cell function that can increase the risk of poor outcomes. All cells, in order to function normally, have mitochondria, which help them generate energy and transfer vital messages between cells. However, during critical illness, the mitochondria in the cells can function less effectively and die prematurely. This can result in continuous multi-organ failure, muscle wasting, and an inability to function normally. However, assessing mitochondrial function and capacity at bedside can be challenging, involving complex clinical tests that may not be very helpful when making rapid treatment decisions in the ICU.
In this study, we aim to assess mitochondrial capacity in critically ill patients using three methods. We are planning to recruit 20 patients in the ICU who are on a ventilator for breathing support. We plan to measure mitochondrial capacity from collected breath samples, blood cells, and muscle cells. This study will help us determine the best way to assess mitochondrial function and capacity in critically ill patients and to understand the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches. If the breath test provides an assessment similar to the standard, sophisticated mitochondrial testing, we could use it at the bedside in the future to improve patients’ outcomes.
REC name
Wales REC 3
REC reference
24/WA/0199
Date of REC Opinion
12 Jul 2024
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion