Understanding how fatty acids influence the production of blood platelets
Official title: Elucidation of the mechanisms by which fatty acids drive megakaryopoiesis
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11073104 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain healthy fats in our diet can help the cells that make platelets, which are important for blood clotting, and it aims to find new ways to help people with problems related to their platelet counts.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $354,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK139341-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11073104 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with bleeding disorders or conditions that result in abnormal platelet counts.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with normal platelet counts and no history of bleeding or clotting disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in the development of megakaryocytes, the cells responsible for producing platelets. By exploring how these fatty acids are taken up by megakaryocyte progenitor cells through the CD36 receptor, the study aims to identify new therapeutic targets for patients with abnormal platelet counts. The research employs advanced techniques such as click chemistry and phospho-flow cytometry, alongside human and mouse models, to understand the mechanisms involved in platelet production. This could lead to new treatments for conditions related to bleeding or clotting disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new therapeutic options for patients with abnormal platelet counts, improving their risk management for bleeding or clotting disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting metabolic pathways for blood cell production, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Machlus, Kellie Rae — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Machlus, Kellie Rae
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.