Tiny RNAs to change how platelets work
Short inhibitory RNAs in platelet and megakaryocyte function
Using tiny RNA molecules to reprogram platelet genes so people at risk of dangerous blood clots might get protection with less bleeding.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11310135 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you follow this work, researchers are using short interfering RNAs given into the body to turn down specific platelet genes that help clots form. They will focus on genes like P2Y12 and other platelet regulators and compare the RNA approach to how current drugs work. Labs will study how platelets and their precursor cells (megakaryocytes) take up these naked RNAs and how that changes blood clotting and bleeding in living models. The goal is to learn whether this targeted gene-silencing approach can reduce clotting risk while preserving normal bleeding control.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who are at increased risk of blood clots or who need antiplatelet therapy could be the main candidates for this line of research.
Not a fit: People without clotting risk or those with primary bleeding disorders are unlikely to benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This could offer protection from dangerous clots with fewer bleeding side effects than current antiplatelet drugs.
How similar studies have performed: Existing P2Y12-blocking drugs reduce clots but raise bleeding risk, while using naked siRNAs to reprogram platelets is a novel, preclinical approach with promising early lab results but not yet proven in patients.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Thomas Jefferson University — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goldfinger, Lawrence E — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Goldfinger, Lawrence E
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.