Understanding why some sickle cell disease patients develop immune responses to blood transfusions
Official title: Basic and Translational Mechanisms of Alloimmunization to RBC Transfusion. Project 4
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11070287 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why people with sickle cell disease often have strong immune reactions after getting blood transfusions, especially focusing on those with African heritage, to find ways to make transfusions safer and more effective 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) | $458,329 |
| NIH project number | 5P01HL169552-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070287 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 who do not have sickle cell disease or those who have not received blood transfusions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the reasons behind the high rate of immune responses, known as alloimmunization, in individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) who receive blood transfusions. By analyzing genetic information and environmental factors, the study aims to identify specific genetic variants that may increase the likelihood of developing these immune responses. The research will involve a large cohort of SCD patients, focusing on those with African heritage, to better understand how their genetics influence transfusion outcomes. Ultimately, the goal is to improve transfusion safety and effectiveness for these patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized transfusion strategies that minimize the risk of alloimmunization in sickle cell disease patients.
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.