Investigating how iron affects lung blood vessels in sickle cell disease

The paradoxical response to iron in pulmonary hypertension of sickle cell disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-11010020

This study is looking at how iron levels affect lung problems in people with sickle cell disease by exploring how certain immune cells react to low oxygen and high hemoglobin, with the hope of finding better treatments for these issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11010020 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the complex relationship between iron levels and pulmonary hypertension in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). It examines how certain immune cells, specifically macrophages, behave in response to high levels of hemoglobin and low oxygen conditions, which are common in SCD. By studying both human patients and animal models, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to lung complications in these patients, potentially paving the way for new treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with sickle cell disease and experience pulmonary hypertension.

Not a fit: Patients without sickle cell disease or those who do not have pulmonary hypertension may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for pulmonary hypertension in sickle cell disease patients, enhancing their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in similar conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.