Using Darbepoetin and iron to reduce blood transfusions and improve brain development in preterm infants
Official title: Trial of Darbepoetin plus slow-release intravenous iron to decrease transfusions and improve iron status and neurodevelopment in preterm infants
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10876449 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a medication called Darbepoetin, along with a special type of iron, can help preterm babies make more red blood cells and need fewer blood transfusions, which could help their brain development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | July 8, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $543,970 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD107003-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10876449 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are preterm infants born at less than 32 weeks of gestation who are at risk for anemia and require blood transfusions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not preterm or those who do not require blood transfusions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of Darbepoetin, a medication that helps increase red blood cell production, combined with slow-release intravenous iron to reduce the need for blood transfusions in preterm infants. These infants are particularly vulnerable to iron deficiency, which can negatively impact their brain development. By minimizing transfusions and ensuring adequate iron levels, the study aims to improve neurodevelopmental outcomes in these infants. The approach involves monitoring the infants' responses to treatment and assessing their developmental progress over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved brain development and reduced transfusion-related complications in preterm infants.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches in managing anemia and improving outcomes in preterm infants, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Juul, Sandra E — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Juul, Sandra E
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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.