New blood sampling methods for monitoring immunosuppressive drugs in children
Microsampling Assays for Immunosuppressive Drugs in Children
This study is testing a new, easier way for kids to check their blood levels of important medications after organ transplants or for autoimmune conditions, using tiny blood samples that can be taken at home instead of going to the hospital all the time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10447731 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a less invasive method for monitoring blood levels of immunosuppressive drugs in children, which are crucial for preventing organ rejection after transplants and managing autoimmune conditions. The study aims to utilize volumetric absorptive microsampling (VAMS) techniques that allow for small blood samples to be collected at home, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits. By using devices that require only a tiny amount of blood, the research seeks to make therapeutic drug monitoring easier and safer for pediatric patients and their families.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-21 who are receiving immunosuppressive therapy for conditions like organ transplants or autoimmune diseases.
Not a fit: Patients who are not on immunosuppressive therapy or those who are adults may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the burden of frequent blood draws for children on immunosuppressive therapy, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Similar approaches using microsampling techniques have shown promise in other studies, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Children's Hosp of Philadelphia — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Master, Stephen R — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Master, Stephen R
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 below.