How red blood cells affect immune cell behavior in sickle cell disease

RBC Effects on Neutrophil Activation and Phenotypes in Sickle Cell Disease

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10936775

This study is looking at how certain immune cells called neutrophils get activated by sickle red blood cells in people with sickle cell disease, and it hopes to find new treatments that can help reduce this activation and improve health for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10936775 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of activated neutrophils, a type of immune cell, in sickle cell disease (SCD) and how they contribute to complications like vaso-occlusion. The study focuses on how sickle red blood cells (RBCs) directly activate neutrophils, leading to increased inflammation and dysfunction. By examining the interactions between sickle RBCs and neutrophils, the research aims to identify potential therapies that could reduce neutrophil activation and improve patient outcomes. Patients may be involved in trials that test these new therapeutic approaches.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease who experience frequent complications related to inflammation.

Not a fit: Patients with sickle cell disease who do not exhibit significant neutrophil activation or related complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce inflammation and improve the quality of life for patients with sickle cell disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that targeting neutrophil activation can lead to improved outcomes in other inflammatory conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach in sickle cell disease.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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.