Understanding why some people make antibodies after blood transfusions
Basic and Translational Mechanisms of Alloimmunization to RBC Transfusion. Project 2
This project explores why some patients develop antibodies to transfused red blood cells while others do not, aiming to find ways to prevent this reaction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11134693 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
When patients receive blood transfusions, their bodies sometimes create antibodies against the new red blood cells, a reaction called alloimmunization. This can cause serious health problems for those who need frequent transfusions. We know that some patients are "responders" and make many antibodies, while others are "non-responders" and never do, but we don't fully understand why. This project looks at how signals from red blood cells, called purinergic signaling, might affect whether someone develops these antibodies. We are using a mouse model to uncover the specific ways these signals control the body's immune response to transfused blood.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients who receive regular blood transfusions and are at risk of developing or have developed alloantibodies may find this research relevant.
Not a fit: Patients who do not receive blood transfusions or do not experience alloimmunization are unlikely to directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent harmful antibody reactions in patients who receive blood transfusions.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data from a mouse model suggest that specific signaling pathways do regulate antibody production, indicating a promising direction for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Luckey, Chance Marion John — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Luckey, Chance Marion John
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.