Blood type and immune genes linked to dangerous heparin reactions
ABO and Immunogenetic Variation in the Pathogenesis of Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA · NIH-11098674
Researchers are looking at whether blood type and certain immune genes explain why some people develop a dangerous drop in platelets after heparin.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (TUCSON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11098674 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would be asked to give blood so researchers can compare people who did and did not develop heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) after receiving heparin. They will search the genome and check blood type, look for the HLA-DRB3*01:01 gene, and sequence specific T-cell receptors to see how immune cells respond. The team will also test PF4/heparin antibodies to distinguish harmless from harmful antibodies and combine genetic and immune data to find predictive biomarkers. Samples and lab tests will come from the University of Arizona and collaborating hospitals to link lab findings with patient histories.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people who received heparin—especially those who developed low platelets or had suspected HIT—or anyone willing to donate blood for genetic and immune testing.
Not a fit: People who have never been exposed to heparin or whose conditions are unrelated to blood clots or platelet disorders are unlikely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to tests that predict who is at high risk for HIT so clinicians can avoid heparin or take extra precautions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous genetic and immune studies have suggested links between HLA types, T-cell responses, and HIT, but combining large-scale genomics with immune-cell sequencing to identify predictive biomarkers is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
TUCSON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA — TUCSON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KARNES, JASON HANSEN — UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
- Study coordinator: KARNES, JASON HANSEN
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 below.