How ABO and H blood types shape immune responses
Project-004
This project looks at how different ABO and H blood types affect the immune system in people to help improve transfusions, transplants, and infection care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11135397 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, researchers will compare blood from people with different ABO and H blood types to see how antibodies and immune cells react. Lab tests and molecular analyses will be used to map the specific antigens and immune responses tied to each blood type. The team will use laboratory models and patient-derived samples to test new strategies that might reduce harmful immune reactions during transfusion or transplantation. Results aim to inform better matching, screening, or therapies that reduce complications related to blood-type incompatibility.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with known ABO or H blood types, especially those with rare variants, a history of transfusion reactions, or who are awaiting blood transfusion or organ transplant, would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients whose care does not involve transfusion, transplantation, or blood-type–related immune issues may not see direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reduce transfusion and transplant complications and lead to safer matching or new treatments for blood-type–related immune problems.
How similar studies have performed: Research on ABO antibodies and transfusion compatibility is well established, but applying novel strategies to change immune responses in this area is still exploratory.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stowell, Sean R — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Stowell, Sean R
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.