Understanding the immune response in heparin-induced thrombocytopenia

The Immunobiology of Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia

NIH-funded research Versiti Wisconsin, INC. · NIH-10934144

This study is looking to create a quick and reliable test to help doctors tell the difference between harmful and harmless antibodies in patients who have had a serious reaction to heparin, which could lead to better treatment and outcomes for those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVersiti Wisconsin, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project IDNIH-10934144 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a serious immune reaction where antibodies target a specific protein when heparin is present. The study aims to develop a rapid and accurate diagnostic test to differentiate between harmful and non-harmful antibodies in patients who have been exposed to heparin. By cloning antibodies from actual HIT patients, researchers hope to uncover the molecular differences that lead to the activation of platelets, which can cause dangerous blood clots. This could ultimately improve treatment decisions and patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have experienced heparin exposure and exhibit symptoms or test results suggestive of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to heparin or do not have symptoms related to heparin-induced thrombocytopenia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and safer treatment options for patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses related to heparin, but this specific approach using cloned antibodies from HIT patients is novel.

Where this research is happening

Milwaukee, 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.