Curing blood disorders without chemotherapy

Chemotherapy-free cure of hemoglobin disorders through base editing

NIH-funded research Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11112520

This study is looking for a new way to help people with severe blood disorders like sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia by using gene editing to boost their body's natural ability to make healthy blood, without the need for chemotherapy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston Children's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11112520 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new treatment for severe blood disorders like sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia that avoids the use of chemotherapy. It aims to enhance the body's ability to produce fetal hemoglobin, which can help bypass the defects causing these conditions. The approach involves using advanced gene editing techniques to modify blood stem cells, making them more effective and safer for patients. By combining immunotherapy with gene editing, the researchers hope to create a safer and more effective treatment option for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease or transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of blood disorders or those who do not have sickle cell disease or beta-thalassemia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer, chemotherapy-free cure for patients with sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using gene editing and immunotherapy for blood disorders, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.