Australian Research Identifies Potential Sepsis Therapy Using CBG Protein

Naturally Occurring Protein Identified as Potential New Sepsis Therapy

A preclinical study conducted by Australian researchers from the University of Adelaide and the Central Adelaide Local Health Network has identified corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG), a naturally occurring human protein, as a potential new therapy for sepsis. The research, published in the journal Endocrinology, indicated that restoring depleted CBG levels reduced relative mortality by over 70 percent in a preclinical model of septic shock.

Restoring depleted CBG levels reduced relative mortality by over 70 percent in a preclinical model of septic shock.

Research Findings

The study demonstrated that restoring levels of corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG) improved survival in a preclinical model of septic shock. This intervention reduced relative mortality by over 70 percent and provided protection against sepsis progression, including reductions in low blood pressure (hypotension) and organ damage.

Researchers propose that these findings suggest CBG may initiate an anti-inflammatory response beyond its known function of transporting hormones. One researcher noted this could potentially be the first new natural anti-inflammatory discovered in over half a century.

Understanding Sepsis and CBG

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition characterized by the body's immune system overreacting to an infection, leading to widespread inflammation that can result in organ failure. Severe septic shock involves dangerously low blood pressure and multiple organ failure, accounting for more than 20 percent of global deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) considers sepsis a global health priority, with incidents projected to rise due to advances in invasive surgery, implantable devices, and immunosuppressive therapies.

CBG is a protein produced in the liver that primarily transports the stress hormone cortisol through the bloodstream. Researchers have studied CBG for over a decade. Previous investigations by the Adelaide team linked CBG deficiency to increased critical illness severity and a threefold increase in death risk among intensive care patients with septic shock.

Need for New Therapies

Despite high mortality rates, new therapies for septic shock have not been widely adopted into clinical practice for decades, and existing treatments have limited effectiveness. Researchers suggest that a therapy derived from a naturally occurring protein like CBG could offer patient benefits with minimal toxicity.

Future Steps

CBG is currently being prepared for first-in-human clinical trials. The research team, in collaboration with AusHealth, is working towards applying these laboratory findings to patient care. Researchers are also exploring CBG's potential benefits for patients with severe burn injuries and other conditions associated with CBG depletion. If clinical trials validate these initial preclinical results, the therapy could represent an advancement in the treatment of sepsis and septic shock.