Understanding the immune response in patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
Molecular Basis of the Humoral Immune Response in Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia
This study is looking at how the immune system responds to heparin, a blood thinner, to find out more about a serious condition called heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), and it aims to help doctors better identify harmful antibodies in patients, even if their regular tests come back normal, so they can prevent serious complications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Versiti Wisconsin, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11050870 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the immune system reacts to heparin, a common blood thinner, which can lead to a serious condition called heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). The study focuses on identifying specific antibodies produced by B cells that can activate platelets and cause dangerous blood clots. By analyzing patient samples, the researchers aim to develop better diagnostic methods to detect these harmful antibodies, even in patients who test negative in standard assays. This could help in preventing severe complications associated with HIT.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients who have received heparin and are suspected of having heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been treated with heparin or do not exhibit symptoms of thrombocytopenia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved detection and management of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, reducing the risk of life-threatening blood clots in affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the immune response in similar conditions can lead to significant advancements in diagnosis and treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Milwaukee, United States
- Versiti Wisconsin, INC. — Milwaukee, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wen, Renren — Versiti Wisconsin, INC.
- Study coordinator: Wen, Renren
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.