Matching donor red blood cells by RH genotype for sickle cell disease patients

RH Genotype Matched Red Cell Transfusions for Patients With Sickle Cell Disease

PHASE1; PHASE2 · Children's Hospital of Philadelphia · NCT04156893

This study is testing if matching red blood cell transfusions to the RH genotype can help people with sickle cell disease who need regular transfusions feel better and have fewer complications.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE1; PHASE2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment35 (estimated)
Ages6 Months and up
SexAll
SponsorChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia (other)
Locations1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT04156893 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This Phase 1/2 trial aims to assess the feasibility and efficacy of using RH genotype-matched red blood cell transfusions for patients with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) who require chronic transfusions. The study will utilize RH genotyped donor units from the New York Blood Center, ensuring that patients receive transfusions that minimize foreign Rh protein exposure. Participants will be monitored for Rh alloantibody formation during their transfusion therapy, which will last up to three years. The trial seeks to improve upon the current standard of care by providing a higher level of red cell matching.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals over 6 months old diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease who require chronic red cell transfusion therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with rare RH genotypes or those who are alloimmunized to the D antigen may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the risk of alloimmunization and improve transfusion outcomes for patients with Sickle Cell Disease.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in improving transfusion compatibility and outcomes.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Subjects age \>6 months
* Diagnosis of SCD, all genotypes
* Require a period of chronic red cell transfusion therapy
* Subject/parental/guardian permission (informed consent) and if appropriate, child assent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Rare RH genotype that would preclude identification of sufficient RBC units
* Antigen negative requirements due to alloimmunization that would preclude identification of sufficient RBC units
* Alloimmunized to D antigen
* Rh alloimmunized patients for whom providing RH genotype matched blood would expose the patient to an antigen that would not be consistent with standard of care and blood bank protocols
* Parents/guardians or subjects who, in the opinion of the Investigator, may be non-compliant with study schedules or procedures

Where this trial is running

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Sickle Cells Disease, Chronic Transfusion

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.