Using a new drug to increase fetal hemoglobin levels in sickle cell disease

Targeting PGC-1a for the treatment of sickle cell disease

NIH-funded research Boston Medical Center · NIH-10837848

This study is looking at a new medicine called ZLN005 to see if it can help people with sickle cell disease by boosting their levels of a special type of hemoglobin that can make their symptoms better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10837848 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of a small molecule called ZLN005 to increase fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). By targeting a protein known as PGC-1α, the study aims to enhance the production of HbF, which can help reduce the complications associated with SCD. The approach involves testing the drug in preclinical models before moving to early-phase clinical trials. Patients may benefit from a new treatment option that could be more effective than current therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with sickle cell disease who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of anemia or those who do not have sickle cell disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new, safer treatment for sickle cell disease that significantly improves patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to increase fetal hemoglobin levels, but this specific method is novel.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Adenoviridae InfectionsAdenovirus InfectionsHb SS diseaseHbSS diseaseHemoglobin S Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.