Modeling HbS polymerization in sickle cell disease at the single-cell level
Official title: Modeling oxygen-dependent hemoglobin polymerization in sickle cell disease at the single cell level
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11394205 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A research project uses computer and lab models to understand how sickle hemoglobin polymerizes inside individual red blood cells, with goal of guiding future treatments for people with sickle cell disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $688,820 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL178560-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11394205 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with sickle cell disease and red blood cells available for single-cell analysis may be involved indirectly through samples.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose illness does not involve HbS polymerization or who do not contribute samples may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to build a mechanistic, single-cell model of HbS polymerization to explain why different patients and even cells within one patient respond differently to treatment. Researchers will integrate factors like HbS concentration, other hemoglobins, and 2,3-BPG to predict polymerization behavior. The work could help prioritize drug candidates and tailor therapies to individual patients in the future. The study combines advanced measurement methods with computational modeling to link cellular biology to potential clinical outcomes. The goal is to reduce reliance on large, lengthy trials by improving preclinical decision-making and personalizing care."
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the model could speed up drug development and help clinicians choose the best treatment strategy for each patient.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has advanced single-cell measurements, but a fully predictive polymerization model in humans remains a novel and unproven approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Higgins, John Matthew — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Higgins, John Matthew
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Digital twins of the spleen to help design better therapies for sickle cell disease
A computer-driven replica of the spleen is being developed to speed up creating safer and more effective treatments for people with sickle cell disease.
-
Accelerating hydroxyurea use for sickle cell disease in Nigeria
A pragmatic study in Nigeria aims to help doctors use hydroxyurea more consistently for people with sickle cell disease.
-
Immune and nerve signals behind acupuncture relief for sickle cell pain
This NIH grant explores how acupuncture helps reduce pain and opioid use for people with sickle cell disease.
-
Mindfulness-based Support for Pain and Sleep in Young People with Sickle Cell Disease
A digital mindfulness program is being tailored for adolescents and young adults with sickle cell disease to help with pain and sleep and is being tested for practicality and early effectiveness.
-
How diet affects white blood cells and sickle cell disease
A study looks at how nutrition, from early life to adulthood, influences sickle cell disease by examining neutrophils and disease severity in people with SCD and in a mouse model.
-
Nutrition-based plan to ease pain in sickle cell disease
A nutrition-based approach is being tested to reduce pain for people living with sickle cell disease.
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.