Personalizing Blood Transfusions
Omics, mice and men: Development of precision transfusion medicine
This research helps us understand how a blood donor's genes affect how well their red blood cells work after transfusion, aiming to make transfusions safer and more effective for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11164645 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project explores why some donated red blood cells perform better than others after transfusion, focusing on how a donor's unique genetic makeup influences the quality and stability of their blood. We know that factors like how blood is stored and whether red blood cells break down after transfusion can impact patient health. Our work suggests that differences in a donor's genes, rather than just how long blood is stored, play a big role in how well red blood cells function. We are looking at specific genetic variations, including common ones like sickle cell trait, to understand their effects. By studying a large number of blood donors, we aim to identify these genetic factors to improve transfusion practices.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients who regularly receive blood transfusions, such as those with anemia, cancer, or undergoing surgery, could potentially benefit from more effective and safer blood products.
Not a fit: Patients who do not require blood transfusions would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more personalized blood transfusions, ensuring patients receive blood that is best suited for them and less likely to cause complications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has opened new research areas, and this project includes the largest genetic study of blood donors to date, building on existing knowledge.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gladwin, Mark T — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Gladwin, Mark T
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.