Developing new drugs for Sickle Cell Anemia
Official title: Small Molecule Therapeutics for Sickle Cell Anemia
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11036330 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new medicines to help people with Sickle Cell Disease by using a special imaging technique to find ways to stop red blood cells from sickling, which can lead to better health for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $489,554 |
| NIH project number | 5R33HL163743-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11036330 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease, particularly those of African heritage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of anemia or those who do not have Sickle Cell Disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on finding new small molecule therapeutics to treat Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a genetic condition that causes severe complications due to the sickling of red blood cells. The approach involves using an innovative imaging assay that can detect the sickled shape of red blood cells and identify potential anti-sickling agents through high throughput screening. By targeting the pathways that affect hemoglobin polymerization, the research aims to develop effective treatments that could improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective and accessible treatments for patients with Sickle Cell Disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing anti-sickling agents, but this approach utilizing high throughput screening is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Archer, David R — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Archer, David R
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Hydroxyurea to help children with sickle cell anemia in Africa
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Hydroxyurea for Children with Sickle Cell in Africa
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Hydroxyurea for Children with Sickle Cell Disease in Africa
A safe and feasible use of hydroxyurea for young children with sickle cell disease in several African countries to reduce illness and improve daily life.
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Hypoxemia during Sleep in Sickle Cell Disease: How Common is It and How Might Treatments Help
This study looks at how low oxygen during sleep affects adults with sickle cell disease and how they respond to therapy across multiple urban and rural sites.
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Hypoxic red blood cells for sickle cell anemia using the Hemanext ONE system
A new approach using special low-oxygen red blood cells from the Hemanext ONE system is being tested to help adults and children with sickle cell anemia who rely on frequent transfusions.
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Hydroxyurea for Children with Sickle Cell Anemia in Africa
A safety and feasibility pilot study tests giving hydroxyurea to young children with sickle cell anemia in sub-Saharan Africa to reduce illness and death.
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.