Understanding how inflammation affects blood cell function in sickle cell disease
Official title: Inflammation-associated Autophagy Dysfunction
Funded at Bloodworks · NIH-11062958 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how long-lasting inflammation affects blood cells in people with sickle cell disease, and it hopes to find new ways to help improve their health by understanding these changes better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Bloodworks NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $465,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R00HL177831-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11062958 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease, particularly those experiencing complications related to inflammation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without sickle cell disease or those with unrelated blood disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of chronic inflammation, specifically driven by TNFα, in sickle cell disease (SCD) and how it disrupts the normal function of blood cells. The study focuses on understanding how inflammation leads to the accumulation of dysfunctional mitochondria in platelets and red blood cells, which may impair their ability to function properly. By exploring the mechanisms behind these changes, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets to improve patient outcomes. Patients may be involved in providing samples or data to help elucidate these mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve blood cell function and reduce complications in patients with sickle cell disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of inflammation in blood disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Bloodworks
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davizon-Castillo, Pavel — Bloodworks
- Study coordinator: Davizon-Castillo, Pavel
Related research
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This project explores how specific proteins called thiol isomerases contribute to painful blood vessel blockages in people with sickle cell disease.
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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.