Exploring how Erythropoietin affects blood cell development in humans
Official title: Investigating the Cell Type- and Receptor-Specific Effects of Erythropoietin that Mediate Erythropoiesis and Thrombopoiesis in Primary Human Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells
Funded at University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt · NIH-10995314 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called Erythropoietin (EPO) helps your body make red blood cells and platelets, which could lead to better treatments for people with anemia, especially those with kidney issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $112,388 |
| NIH project number | 5R03DK135896-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995314 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from anemia due to chronic kidney disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with anemia not related to chronic kidney disease or those who do not respond to EPO treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the specific effects of Erythropoietin (EPO) on different types of blood cell progenitors in humans, particularly focusing on how EPO influences the development of red blood cells and platelets. By examining human hematopoietic progenitor cells in a laboratory setting, the study aims to understand the signaling pathways activated by EPO and how these pathways affect cell survival and proliferation. This could lead to better treatments for patients suffering from anemia, especially those with chronic kidney disease, by optimizing EPO use and minimizing side effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease, reducing the need for blood transfusions and enhancing quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of EPO in blood cell development, but this specific investigation into its effects on different progenitor cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
Farmington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scanlon, Vanessa M. — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Scanlon, Vanessa M.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Mapping the full range of human genome structure variations
Researchers are building better maps of the big and small differences in human DNA to improve precision medicine.
-
Understanding the full spectrum of structural genetic variation in human genomes
Scientists are improving how we detect complex DNA changes across many human genomes to advance precision medicine.
-
Mapping all kinds of genetic differences in human genomes to improve precision medicine
A national researchers team is creating better ways to find and understand big genetic differences in human DNA to help doctors tailor care.
-
Total Worker Health program for safer, healthier workplaces
A large, multi-year program aims to improve worker health and safety by addressing the whole work environment for people in real-world jobs.
-
Nfe2l3 helps retinal cells heal and may restore simple vision after optic nerve injuries
A scientist at a major university studies how a protein called Nfe2l3 could help retinal nerve cells regrow their axons and potentially restore basic vision after optic nerve injuries.
-
Nfe2l3-driven protection and optic nerve repair for vision
This grant explores how a protein called Nfe2l3 might help retinal nerve cells repair damaged optic nerves to restore simple vision after injuries.
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.