Understanding how metabolism affects red blood cell production

Defining the metabolic regulation of erythropoiesis

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11051765

This study is looking at how energy processes help stem cells turn into red blood cells, which is important for people with anemia, and it uses both mice and human cells to understand how this works.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11051765 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of metabolic processes in the development of red blood cells from hematopoietic stem cells. It focuses on a specific mechanism called the malate-aspartate shuttle, which is crucial for energy transfer within cells. By using both mouse models and human stem cells, the research aims to identify the stages of red blood cell development that rely on this metabolic pathway and to uncover the molecular mechanisms involved. The findings could provide insights into conditions like anemia, where red blood cell production is impaired.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with anemia or other blood disorders related to red blood cell production.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to red blood cell production or those who do not have anemia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for anemia and other blood disorders by enhancing our understanding of red blood cell production.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that metabolic regulation plays a significant role in blood cell development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.