Investigating how fetal hemoglobin can be regulated to treat sickle cell disease

Cellular Signaling Pathways in the Regulation of Fetal Hemoglobin for Treatment of Sickle Cell Disease

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11059878

This study is looking at how certain signals in our cells can help make a special type of hemoglobin that could lead to new treatments for sickle cell disease, and it's being led by Dr. Scott Alan Peslak at the University of Pennsylvania and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11059878 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the cellular signaling pathways that control the production of fetal hemoglobin, which could provide new treatment options for sickle cell disease. The principal investigator, Dr. Scott Alan Peslak, aims to develop expertise in gene regulation and bioinformatics to explore how these pathways can be manipulated. By studying the molecular mechanisms involved, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve patient outcomes. The project is supported by the resources of the University of Pennsylvania and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease, particularly those who are 21 years or older.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of hemoglobinopathies or those not diagnosed with sickle cell disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in manipulating fetal hemoglobin levels to treat sickle cell disease, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Conditions acute chest syndrome
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.