Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 18 to 80

Link between PKLR gene variants and sickle cell disease symptoms

Official title: Genotype -Phenotype Correlation of PKLR Variants With Pyruvate Kinase, 2,3-Diphosphglycerate and ATP Activities in Red Blood Cells of Patients With Sickle Cell Disease

Run by National Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC) · NCT03685721 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is trying to see if changes in a specific gene can affect the symptoms of sickle cell disease in people.

More Sickle Cell Disease trials

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
Enrollment800 (estimated)
SponsorNational Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC)
NIH
Locations1 site (Bethesda, Maryland)
StatusRecruiting
StartedOctober 11, 2018
Main results expectedJuly 1, 2027
Study endsJuly 1, 2027
Registry record updatedNovember 10, 2026
Trial IDNCT03685721 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-80 of African descent, with or without sickle cell disease.

Probably not a fit

Patients who have had a blood transfusion in the last 8 weeks or have a known deficiency of pyruvate kinase may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the relationship between genetic variants in the PKLR gene and the symptoms of sickle cell disease (SCD). Researchers will analyze how these variants affect the activity of pyruvate kinase and other proteins in red blood cells, which are crucial for maintaining cell function. Participants will be screened based on specific criteria, including age and genetic background, and will provide DNA samples for analysis. The study seeks to enhance understanding of the genetic factors influencing SCD complications.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management strategies for patients with sickle cell disease based on their genetic profiles.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of correlating PKLR variants with SCD symptoms is novel, similar genetic studies have shown promise in understanding other genetic disorders.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
* INCLUSUION CRITERIA:
* Between 18 and 80 years of age
* African or of African descent
* Capacity to consent is required

EXCLUSION CRITERIA:

* Self-reported history of blood transfusion within the last 8 weeks
* Known to have pyruvate kinase deficiency and be on AG348
* All volunteers will undergo the consent process under this protocol to allow for eligibility assessment. Once they have been consented to participate, they will undergo procedures per Protocol.

Where it's running

  • National Institutes of Health Clinical Center
    Bethesda, Maryland, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Swee Lay Thein, M.D. — National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
  • Study coordinator: Dianna S Lovins
  • Email: dianna.lovins@nih.gov
  • Phone: (301) 480-3765

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.