How red blood cells release oxygen in diseases

Mechanisms of oxygen off-loading from red blood cells in murine models of human disease

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11012272

This study is looking at how red blood cells carry oxygen and carbon dioxide, especially in people with heart problems or lung diseases like COVID-19, to find out how aging and genetics affect this process and hopefully discover better treatments for those conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11012272 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which red blood cells (RBCs) transport oxygen and carbon dioxide, focusing on the role of specific proteins in this process. Using murine models, the study examines how these mechanisms are affected in various diseases, including heart failure and pulmonary conditions like COVID-19. The researchers aim to understand how aging and genetic factors influence the efficiency of gas transport in RBCs, which is crucial for maintaining proper oxygen levels in tissues. By exploring these biological processes, the research seeks to uncover new insights that could lead to improved treatments for patients with related health issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from heart failure, pulmonary diseases, or other conditions that affect oxygen transport in the body.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to oxygen transport or those who do not have any of the target diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better therapeutic strategies for diseases that impair oxygen transport, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding gas transport mechanisms in red blood cells, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, 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 2026-06-15 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.