Improving the growth of blood stem cells for better treatments
Official title: Modulation of Endoplasmic Reticulum Associated Degradation to Support Ex Vivo Expansion of Hematopoietic Stem Cells
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11143889 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to help blood stem cells grow better and stay healthy outside the body, which could lead to better treatments for blood disorders like leukemia and sickle cell disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $452,788 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL174566-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143889 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with blood disorders, such as leukemia or sickle cell disease, who may benefit from stem cell transplantation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to blood disorders or those who do not require stem cell therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the growth and preservation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which are crucial for producing blood cells and treating various blood disorders. The approach involves understanding and modifying the mechanisms that regulate protein quality control in these stem cells, particularly through a process called endoplasmic reticulum associated degradation (ERAD). By improving the conditions under which HSCs are expanded outside the body, the research aims to ensure that these cells maintain their ability to regenerate the blood system after transplantation. This could lead to more effective therapies for conditions like leukemia and sickle cell disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective blood stem cell therapies, improving outcomes for patients with blood disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing stem cell expansion and function through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
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University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Qing — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Li, Qing
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.