UMSL chemists Michael Nichols (left) and Alexei Demchenko have collaborated on research that "turns off" the immune system in an effort to help prevent septic shock.

Two University of Missouri–St. Louis chemists have collaborated to find a way to “turn off” the immune system when it overreacts. The ability to do so could help prevent sepsis, a condition in which the immune system’s reaction to an infection affects organ function and can eventually lead to septic shock – a sometimes-fatal drop in blood pressure.

The University of Missouri System featured Alexei Demchenko, associate professor of chemistry at UMSL; Michael Nichols, associate professor of chemistry at UMSL; and their research in a recent video. The chemists also discussed the importance of research collaboration.

Visit umsystem.edu/stories/turning_off_the_immune_system to learn more about Demchenko and Nichols’ research.

More information:
umsl.edu/chemistry/faculty/demchenko.htm
umsl.edu/chemistry/faculty/nichols.html