Investigating how itaconate affects inflammatory blood cell accumulation to prevent anemia

Itaconate mediated control of inflammatory hemophagocyte accumulation

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11078658

This study is looking at how a substance called itaconate, made by an enzyme named IRG1, helps manage certain immune cells that can cause severe anemia, with the goal of finding new ways to treat anemia linked to inflammation.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11078658 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of the enzyme IRG1 and its product, itaconate, in controlling inflammatory blood cells that can lead to severe anemia. By understanding how itaconate influences the behavior of specific immune cells, the study aims to restore the balance between red blood cell production and clearance during inflammation. The research employs mouse models to examine the transition of monocytes into specialized inflammatory hemophagocytes, which are implicated in the development of anemia. This could provide insights into new therapeutic strategies for managing anemia associated with inflammatory conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from severe anemia related to chronic inflammatory conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with anemia not associated with inflammation or those with other unrelated blood disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or alleviate severe anemia in patients with inflammatory diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of itaconate in this context are still being explored, similar approaches targeting inflammatory processes have shown promise in other studies.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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 →

Conditions: Anemia due to Chronic Disorder, anemia of chronic disease

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.