How sex and gender affect inflammation and pain in sickle cell disease
Official title: Sex and gender influences on inflammation and pain in sickle cell disease
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10991182 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how inflammation and pain from sickle cell disease might be different for women compared to men, especially in relation to female hormones, to help find better ways to manage pain for everyone with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $496,503 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL175726-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991182 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are females diagnosed with sickle cell disease who experience vaso-occlusive pain episodes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are male or do not have sickle cell disease may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the differences in inflammation and pain experienced by females with sickle cell disease (SCD) compared to males. It aims to understand how female sex hormones may influence the frequency and severity of vaso-occlusive pain episodes, which are common in SCD. The study will analyze the relationship between hormonal cycles, inflammation levels, and pain episodes, potentially leading to new therapeutic approaches. By examining both biological and sociocultural factors, the research seeks to uncover the underlying causes of pain disparities in SCD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies and better health outcomes for females with sickle cell disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that hormonal influences can affect pain and inflammation, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roe, Andrea — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Roe, Andrea
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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.