Faster, more accurate test for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
Improved diagnostics for heparin induced thrombocytopenia
We're creating a quick lab test to find dangerous platelet reactions in people who have received heparin and might have heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11323524 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If I take part, the team will develop a new molecular sensor that detects the mechanical forces platelets make when they activate. They will test the sensor using blood samples that contain the antibodies known to cause HIT and compare the sensor's readouts to the current reference tests. The work builds on prior lab data showing platelets contract with measurable force after activation, and researchers will refine the sensor so it works quickly and reliably. The goal is a faster, accurate test that could be used in hospitals instead of sending samples to a few specialized reference laboratories.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people who have recently received heparin and have a clinical concern for HIT, such as a falling platelet count or new clot while on heparin.
Not a fit: People who have not been exposed to heparin or whose low platelet counts are due to other known causes are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could give faster and more accurate HIT diagnoses so patients avoid unnecessary or risky anticoagulants and reduce the chance of clotting, bleeding, or amputation.
How similar studies have performed: This approach is relatively novel—current standard tests use complex serotonin-release assays run in specialized labs, while mechanical sensing of platelet activation has promising preliminary lab data but is not yet established as a clinical diagnostic.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Salaita, Khalid S. — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Salaita, Khalid S.
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 below.