How caspase-4 drives inflammation in sickle cell disease
Inflammatory caspase activation in sickle cell disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-11309179
This project looks at whether a protein called caspase-4 causes harmful inflammation in children with sickle cell disease and whether targeting it could help.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11309179 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team studies how heme released from damaged red blood cells activates a protein called caspase-4 that may trigger chronic inflammation in sickle cell disease. In laboratory work they will find where heme binds caspase-4 and how that starts the inflammatory cascade. They will test effects of blocking caspase-4 in cell and animal models to see if inflammation and organ injury are reduced. The researchers will also examine clinical samples and outcome data from children with sickle cell disease to link caspase activity with symptoms like painful crises, stroke, or acute chest syndrome.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Children with sickle cell disease—especially those who have frequent vaso-occlusive crises, acute chest syndrome, or other inflammation-related complications—would be most relevant.
Not a fit: People without sickle cell disease, and patients whose symptoms arise from different biological pathways, are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could identify a new, affordable target for treatments that reduce inflammation and prevent organ damage in people with sickle cell disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab studies have shown caspase-4 and related inflammatory caspases play a role in heme-driven inflammation, but translating this into clinical treatments is still largely untested.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BOUCHIER-HAYES, LISA — BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
- Study coordinator: BOUCHIER-HAYES, LISA
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.