How HLA gene patterns affect stem-cell transplant outcomes

Clinical Significance of MHC Haplotypes in HCT

['FUNDING_R01'] · FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER · NIH-11166703

We are looking at how inherited HLA gene patterns in donors and patients influence survival, relapse, and complications after blood stem-cell transplants.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorFRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11166703 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

From a patient's perspective, researchers compare the detailed HLA genes of transplant donors and recipients to see how whole inherited haplotypes (groups of linked HLA-related genes) affect outcomes. They link high-resolution genetic typing with clinical records on graft-versus-host disease, relapse, and survival to identify risky or protective patterns. The team examines extended regions including HLA-E, HLA-B leader sequences, MICA/MICB, DQ/DM/DO, and nearby ULBP genes rather than single genes alone. The goal is to use those patterns to improve donor selection and give patients clearer information about transplant risks.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People with blood cancers or other blood disorders who are candidates for allogeneic (donor) stem-cell or bone marrow transplantation are the ideal participants.

Not a fit: This work is unlikely to help people who are not receiving donor stem-cell transplants, such as those treated with autologous transplants or with non-blood-related conditions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: Could help doctors choose donors who lower the chance of relapse and improve survival after allogeneic stem-cell transplants.

How similar studies have performed: Prior research has shown individual HLA genes matter and this group has reported haplotype links to relapse, but using extended haplotype information to guide donor choice is a relatively new approach with limited prospective validation.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Blood Diseases

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.