Understanding why some people with sickle cell disease develop immune responses to blood transfusions
Official title: Basic and Translational Mechanisms of Alloimmunization to RBC Transfusion Scientific Core A
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11070283 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why people with sickle cell disease often develop immune reactions after getting blood transfusions, and it’s for individuals with sickle cell disease who receive these transfusions, especially those of African descent, to help make blood transfusions safer for them.
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 start | September 10, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $618,692 |
| NIH project number | 5P01HL169552-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070283 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with sickle cell disease who have received multiple blood transfusions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without sickle cell disease or those who have not undergone blood transfusions are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the reasons behind the high rate of red blood cell alloimmunization in individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) who receive blood transfusions. By analyzing genetic information and environmental factors, the study aims to identify key drivers that lead to the formation of alloantibodies after transfusions. Participants will undergo whole genome sequencing to compare those who develop immune responses to those who do not, focusing particularly on individuals of African descent. The findings could help tailor transfusion strategies to minimize complications for patients with SCD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved blood transfusion protocols that reduce the risk of alloimmunization in patients with sickle cell disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that genetic factors play a significant role in alloimmunization, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sheehan, Vivien Andrea — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Sheehan, Vivien Andrea
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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.