Engineering red blood cells to stop severe bleeding

Hemostatic erythrocytes for acute non-compressible hemorrhage

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11051425

This study is looking at a new way to help stop severe bleeding by using specially designed red blood cells that can stick to damaged blood vessels, which could be really helpful in emergencies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11051425 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating specially engineered red blood cells that can adhere to damaged blood vessels and help stop severe bleeding, particularly in emergency situations. The approach involves modifying red blood cells to target specific proteins found in blood clots, which may enhance their ability to plug wounds. The researchers will test these modified cells in laboratory settings and in animal models to evaluate their effectiveness in promoting clot formation and improving survival rates during severe hemorrhage. If successful, this innovative method could provide critical time for further medical interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals at risk of severe bleeding due to trauma or surgical complications.

Not a fit: Patients with bleeding disorders that are not related to acute hemorrhage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve survival rates for patients experiencing severe, uncontrolled bleeding.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of engineering red blood cells for hemostatic purposes is novel, previous studies have shown promise in modifying blood components for enhanced clotting.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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 2026-06-15 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.