Understanding how blood transfusions can lead to immune reactions in patients.

Basic and Translational Mechanisms of Alloimmunization to RBC Transfusion. Project 3

NIH-funded research University of Virginia · NIH-11070286

This study is looking at how your immune system reacts when you get a blood transfusion, especially why some people develop antibodies against the donor blood, and it aims to find ways to prevent any bad reactions during transfusions.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Virginia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlottesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11070286 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the immune responses that occur when patients receive red blood cell (RBC) transfusions, particularly focusing on the development of alloantibodies against donor blood group antigens. By identifying risk factors associated with both the donor RBC units and the recipients' immune systems, the study aims to uncover strategies to prevent adverse reactions. The researchers will utilize murine models to explore how reticulocytes, a type of immature red blood cell, may influence the rates of alloimmunization. This work seeks to address a significant clinical need for effective interventions in transfusion medicine.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients who require blood transfusions, especially those with conditions like hemolytic anemia that may increase their risk of developing alloantibodies.

Not a fit: Patients who do not require blood transfusions or who have no history of immune reactions to transfusions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety and outcomes for patients receiving blood transfusions by reducing the risk of immune reactions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses to blood transfusions can lead to better management strategies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Charlottesville, 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.
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.