Effects of hemin on blood vessel function in sickle cell disease

Diverse effects of hemin on the endothelium contribute to pulmonary complications of sickle cell disease

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO · NIH-11175772

This study is looking at how a substance called hemin affects blood vessels in people with sickle cell disease, especially how it might lead to serious lung problems, and aims to find new ways to help improve treatments for these issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11175772 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how hemin, a breakdown product of hemoglobin, affects the blood vessels in patients with sickle cell disease. It focuses on understanding the role of hemin in causing serious lung complications, such as acute chest syndrome and pulmonary hypertension, which are common in these patients. By studying animal models, the researchers aim to uncover how hemin influences the behavior of endothelial cells, which line the blood vessels, potentially leading to harmful changes in the lungs. The goal is to identify new therapeutic targets that could improve treatment options for patients suffering from these complications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease, particularly those experiencing pulmonary complications.

Not a fit: Patients without sickle cell disease or those not experiencing pulmonary complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target lung complications in sickle cell disease, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting hemin's effects on pulmonary endothelium is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding vascular complications in other diseases.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acute Lung Injury, Acute Pulmonary Injury

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.