Improving ECMO treatment by eliminating the need for blood thinners

ECMO without Anticoagulation

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11120032

This study is looking at a new way to make ECMO, a life-support system for seriously ill patients, safer by using a special coating that helps prevent blood clots without the need for blood-thinning medications, which can cause bleeding problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11120032 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the safety and effectiveness of ECMO, a life-support system used in critical care. It aims to develop a special surface coating that prevents blood clotting without the use of anticoagulants, which can lead to serious bleeding complications. By using a nitric oxide-based coating, the study seeks to reduce the risks associated with traditional anticoagulation methods. Patients on ECMO may benefit from fewer complications and improved outcomes as a result of this innovative approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients requiring ECMO support, particularly those at high risk for bleeding or clotting complications.

Not a fit: Patients who are not candidates for ECMO or those with contraindications to nitric oxide therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce complications related to bleeding and clotting in patients undergoing ECMO treatment.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using nitric oxide for anticoagulation, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in ECMO treatment.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.