Safer testing and treatment for heparin-induced low platelets (HIT)

New approaches to the pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia

['FUNDING_R01'] · MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER · NIH-11142528

This project will develop clearer blood tests and safer treatment options for people who develop low platelets after heparin (HIT).

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11142528 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Researchers will use blood samples from people with HIT to separate and study different kinds of antibodies that form after heparin exposure. They will create laboratory-made (monoclonal) versions of these antibodies and test whether each type makes platelets activate and cause clots in a mouse model. By comparing which antibodies cause platelet activation with standard lab tests, they hope to identify markers that distinguish dangerous antibodies from harmless ones. The goal is to reduce unnecessary use of stronger non-heparin blood thinners that increase bleeding risk and to improve outcomes for patients with HIT.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal participants are people diagnosed with or suspected of having HIT who can provide blood samples after heparin exposure.

Not a fit: People without heparin exposure or without HIT antibodies are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to tests that identify harmful HIT antibodies and safer treatment choices that reduce clotting and bleeding complications.

How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have described HIT antibodies and existing tests, but using isolated monoclonal antibodies and functional mouse testing to classify pathogenic versus benign antibodies is a relatively new approach.

Where this research is happening

ROCHESTER, 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 →

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.