Understanding how certain antibodies affect red blood cell transfusions.
Official title: Basic and Translational Mechanisms of Alloimmunization to RBC Transfusion. Project 1
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11070284 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at why some people develop antibodies against red blood cells after getting blood transfusions while others don’t, and it aims to find ways to make transfusions safer for those at risk of this reaction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 10, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $401,492 |
| NIH project number | 5P01HL169552-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070284 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients with autoimmune diseases who require frequent blood transfusions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require blood transfusions or those without autoimmune conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind why some patients develop antibodies against red blood cells (RBCs) after transfusions, a condition known as alloimmunization. It focuses on the differences between patients who become 'responders'—those who develop multiple antibodies—and 'nonresponders'—those who do not develop any antibodies despite receiving chronic transfusions. By studying mouse models that mimic autoimmune conditions, the research aims to identify the biological factors that influence these responses, particularly the role of specific immune receptors. The ultimate goal is to improve transfusion therapy for patients at risk of alloimmunization.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for preventing alloimmunization in patients receiving blood transfusions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses can lead to significant advancements in transfusion medicine, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zimring, James C. — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Zimring, James C.
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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.