Better tests for diagnosing heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
Official title: Improved diagnostics for heparin induced thrombocytopenia
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11029546 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to quickly and accurately diagnose heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) in patients who are receiving heparin, so they can get the right treatment faster and stay safer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $542,442 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL177430-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11029546 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who are receiving heparin and are at risk of developing heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not receiving heparin or those who have already been diagnosed with HIT may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the diagnosis of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a serious condition that can occur in patients receiving heparin, an anticoagulant. The current diagnostic methods are complex and limited, leading to delays in treatment and increased risks for patients. The researchers aim to develop a new molecular sensor that detects the mechanical forces generated by platelets, which could serve as a more rapid and accurate diagnostic tool for HIT. By streamlining the diagnostic process, this research seeks to enhance patient safety and treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to quicker and more accurate diagnoses of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, reducing complications and improving patient care.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using mechanical biomarkers for platelet activity, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Salaita, Khalid S. — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Salaita, Khalid S.
Related research
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Understanding and diagnosing Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT)
A project to understand the immune factors behind HIT and develop faster, more accurate tests to help people who need heparin therapy.
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This grant supports a team of researchers to understand how immune factors cause low platelets and abnormal clots, with a focus on transfusion medicine and pediatric to adult patients.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.