Neutrophil FFA2/GPR43 Receptor Expression in Patients With the Diagnosis of Sepsis

This study seeks to elucidate the quantitative expression of G - protein receptor 43/free fatty acid (GPR43/FFA2) receptors in patients with the diagnosis of sepsis and specifically, its expression as it relates to the severity of sepsis. The investigators hypothesize that patients with more severe sepsis, as defined by a higher SOFA (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Score), will have decreased expression of the GPR43/FFA2 as compared to patients with lower SOFA scores, consistent with a less exuberant immune response to infection. Patients admitted to Penn State Hershey Medical Center with a diagnosis of sepsis of any cause will undergo blood testing of leukocytes to determine the expressed quantity of GP43 during standardized time points of their illness and recovery. No interventions will be made in the standard clinical management of the patient. Additionally, healthy volunteers will be recruited to exam baseline GPR43 receptor expression between sepsis and control groups.