Understanding how megakaryocytes support blood cell production
Official title: Project 1: Megakaryocytes as Organizers of the Hematopoietic Environment
Funded at Versiti Wisconsin, INC. · NIH-11001977 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain blood cells help make platelets, especially for people who have low platelet counts after treatments like chemotherapy or stem cell transplants, with the goal of finding better ways to boost platelet production and reduce the need for transfusions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Versiti Wisconsin, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2021 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $620,183 |
| NIH project number | 5P01HL151333-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001977 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation or those receiving chemotherapy who are at risk of thrombocytopenia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable platelet counts or those not undergoing treatments that affect platelet production may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of megakaryocytes in producing platelets and supporting blood cell development, particularly after treatments like chemotherapy and stem cell transplants. It aims to identify cellular and molecular targets that can enhance platelet production, which is crucial for patients experiencing low platelet counts. By studying the mechanisms that govern thrombopoiesis, the research seeks to improve the recovery of platelets and develop alternative methods for platelet transfusions. Patients may benefit from advancements in treatments that reduce the need for transfusions and associated complications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with low platelet counts, reducing their reliance on platelet transfusions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in enhancing platelet production through similar cellular and molecular targeting approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Versiti Wisconsin, INC.
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hoffmeister, Karin Maria — Versiti Wisconsin, INC.
- Study coordinator: Hoffmeister, Karin Maria
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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.