New methods for treating anemia with iron therapy
Official title: A New Paradigm for Iron Replacement Therapy
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11113875 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to help people with anemia, especially those who struggle to absorb iron, by understanding how a hormone called hepcidin affects iron in the body, so we can find better treatments that avoid common problems with current iron therapies.
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 | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $653,446 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL169470-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11113875 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with anemia of inflammation or iron-refractory iron deficiency anemia who have not responded well to traditional iron therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with anemia caused by non-iron-related factors or those who do not have elevated hepcidin levels may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates innovative approaches to iron replacement therapy for patients suffering from various forms of anemia, particularly those with conditions like anemia of inflammation and iron-refractory iron deficiency anemia. The study focuses on understanding how the hormone hepcidin affects iron absorption and mobilization in the body, which is crucial for effective treatment. By exploring new ways to deliver iron directly to the body, the research aims to overcome the limitations of current therapies that often lead to iron overload or are ineffective due to hepcidin's regulatory effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer treatments for anemia, improving the quality of life for millions of patients worldwide.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in exploring hepcidin modulation and alternative iron delivery methods, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gale, Eric Michael — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Gale, Eric Michael
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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.