Understanding how blood cell clots cause lung injury in sickle cell disease

Pulmonary arteriole occlusion by platelet-neutrophil micro-emboli in Acute Chest Syndrome

NIH-funded research Versiti Wisconsin, INC. · NIH-11016187

This study is looking into how certain tiny clots in the lungs can make Acute Chest Syndrome worse for people with Sickle Cell Disease, and it hopes to find new ways to prevent or lessen this serious condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVersiti Wisconsin, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project IDNIH-11016187 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind Acute Chest Syndrome (ACS), a severe lung condition that affects patients with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). It focuses on how micro-emboli formed by aggregates of platelets and neutrophils contribute to lung injury during vaso-occlusive episodes. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to identify specific inflammatory signaling pathways that can be targeted for new therapies. The goal is to develop treatments that can prevent or reduce the occurrence of ACS in SCD patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease who have experienced vaso-occlusive episodes.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of lung injury not related to Sickle Cell Disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly reduce the incidence of Acute Chest Syndrome in patients with Sickle Cell Disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in reducing pain episodes in SCD patients through targeted therapies, indicating potential success for similar approaches.

Where this research is happening

Milwaukee, 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.
Conditions Acute Lung InjuryAcute Pulmonary Injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.