Understanding how the immune system affects blood transfusions
Uncovering the Impact of Innate Immunity on Transfusion Medicine Immunobiology
This study is looking at how our body's natural defenses can affect the way we produce important antibodies that help prevent problems during blood transfusions and organ transplants, and it aims to find ways to reduce the risk of complications for people receiving these treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10887049 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of innate immunity in the production and effects of anti-ABO(H) antibodies, which are crucial in blood transfusion and transplantation. It aims to identify the factors that influence the levels and specificity of these antibodies, which can lead to adverse reactions during incompatible transfusions. By using a preclinical model that mimics human blood group antigens, the study explores how certain immune proteins can target and eliminate microbes that express blood group antigens, potentially affecting antibody formation. The findings could provide insights into preventing transfusion-related complications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced adverse reactions to blood transfusions or those requiring transfusions with ABO(H) incompatible blood types.
Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone blood transfusions or do not have ABO(H) blood group incompatibility may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety and outcomes for patients receiving blood transfusions or organ transplants.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the immune response related to blood transfusions, but this specific approach focusing on innate immunity and microbial interactions is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Shang-Chuen — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Wu, Shang-Chuen
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 below.