How platelet transfusions affect lung disease and sepsis in newborns

Effects of Platelet Transfusions on Neonatal Chronic Lung Disease and Sepsis-Induced Mortality

NIH-funded research Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11078770

This study is looking at how giving blood platelets to premature babies might affect their chances of getting serious lung problems or infections, and it hopes to find better ways to treat low platelet counts in newborns.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston Children's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078770 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of platelet transfusions on the health of preterm infants, particularly focusing on their risk of developing chronic lung disease and sepsis. The study aims to understand how these transfusions may inadvertently increase mortality rates and worsen lung conditions in neonates. By examining the differences in how neonatal platelets function compared to those in adults, the research seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to these adverse outcomes. The findings could lead to improved treatment protocols for managing low platelet counts in newborns.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are preterm infants who are at risk of low platelet counts and related complications.

Not a fit: Patients who are not preterm or do not have conditions related to low platelet counts may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer transfusion practices that reduce mortality and improve lung health in preterm infants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that liberal platelet transfusions can have negative outcomes in preterm infants, suggesting that this area of study is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.