Understanding how PUM1 affects hemoglobin production in blood cells
Official title: Investigating PUM1 mediated post-transcriptional regulation of human hemoglobin switching and erythropoiesis
Funded at Cleveland State University · NIH-11071982 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called PUM1 to see how it affects the change from fetal to adult hemoglobin in blood cells, with the hope of finding ways to boost fetal hemoglobin levels to help people with sickle cell anemia and beta-thalassemia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cleveland State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $401,908 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134936-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11071982 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sickle cell anemia or beta-thalassemia, particularly those who are 21 years or older.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have sickle cell anemia or beta-thalassemia may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called PUM1 in regulating the production of hemoglobin, specifically how it influences the switch from fetal to adult hemoglobin in blood cells. By studying this process, researchers aim to identify ways to increase fetal hemoglobin levels, which could help treat conditions like sickle cell anemia and beta-thalassemia. The approach involves manipulating PUM1 levels in human blood cells to observe changes in hemoglobin production. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies that are safe and effective for patients with these blood disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new treatment options for patients with sickle cell anemia and beta-thalassemia by increasing fetal hemoglobin levels.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in manipulating hemoglobin levels through genetic and molecular approaches, indicating potential success for this novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Cleveland State University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gnanapragasam, Merlin Nithya — Cleveland State University
- Study coordinator: Gnanapragasam, Merlin Nithya
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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.