Understanding how certain patients develop immune responses to blood transfusions
Official title: Role of IFITs in RBC Alloimmunization
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11039961 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why some people develop antibodies after receiving blood transfusions while others don’t, especially focusing on how viral infections might play a role, so we can find better ways to help those at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | February 19, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $215,401 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI182730-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11039961 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who require frequent blood transfusions and have a history of developing antibodies against transfused blood.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have never received blood transfusions or those who do not require transfusions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates why some patients develop antibodies against red blood cell (RBC) transfusions while others do not. It focuses on the role of viral infections, particularly RNA viruses, in triggering these immune responses. By studying both genetic and environmental factors, the research aims to identify the mechanisms behind RBC alloimmunization. This could lead to better strategies for managing blood transfusions in patients who are at risk of developing these antibodies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve the safety and availability of compatible blood transfusions for patients who are at risk of alloimmunization.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that viral infections can influence immune responses to blood transfusions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
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.