Unlocking the Genetic Secrets of Red Blood Cell Formation
Systematic Genetic Dissection of Human Erythropoiesis
This project explores how our genes influence red blood cell production and fetal hemoglobin levels, which are important for conditions like sickle cell disease and thalassemia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11088909 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project aims to deeply understand the genetic instructions that guide how our bodies make red blood cells and control fetal hemoglobin. Researchers are using advanced genetic tools to identify specific gene changes that affect these processes. They are also mapping out how different parts of our DNA work together to regulate blood cell development. The goal is to uncover the intricate genetic network behind healthy blood cell formation and conditions like sickle cell disease and thalassemia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational genetic work is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit those with blood disorders like sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and various forms of anemia.
Not a fit: Patients without blood disorders or those seeking immediate treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to treat blood disorders by targeting the specific genetic factors that cause them.
How similar studies have performed: The lab has already made substantial strides in mapping and functionalizing genetic variants related to red blood cell traits and HbF levels, indicating prior success with similar approaches.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sankaran, Vijay Ganesh — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Sankaran, Vijay Ganesh
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.