Understanding von Willebrand disease and sickle cell disease
Official title: Molecular and Translational Studies in Hematologic Disorders
Funded at Bloodworks · NIH-11291298 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are looking at how pieces of a blood protein called von Willebrand factor and oxidized fats in sickle cell blood affect bleeding and vessel blockages in people with von Willebrand disease and sickle cell disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Bloodworks NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2032 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,204,271 |
| NIH project number | 5R35HL177719-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11291298 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with diagnosed von Willebrand disease (especially types 2A or 2B) or with sickle cell disease who are willing to provide blood samples would be the best candidates to participate.
✕Less likely to help
People without bleeding disorders or sickle cell disease, or those unable to give blood, are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This project focuses on two blood conditions: von Willebrand disease (VWD) and sickle cell disease (SCD). Scientists will examine small fragments of von Willebrand factor and the role of the enzyme ADAMTS13 in VWD, while also studying oxidized lipids from sickled red blood cells and blood lipoproteins in SCD. The work uses laboratory experiments with blood and blood-derived materials to see how these fragments and oxidized fats change platelet, white cell, and vessel responses. Findings are intended to connect laboratory discoveries to patient blood behaviors and potential clinical implications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new tests or targets that reduce bleeding in VWD or prevent vaso-occlusive events in SCD.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research supports roles for von Willebrand factor and oxidized lipids in these diseases, but the specific functions of the small VWF fragments and some oxidized lipids are relatively new and not yet proven in patients.
Where this research is happening
-
Bloodworks
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lopez, Jose Aron — Bloodworks
- Study coordinator: Lopez, Jose Aron
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.