The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research was awarded a $6.1 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to gain a better understanding of red cell disorders. Red cell disorders like Diamond-Blackfan anemia (DBA) and sickle cell disease (SCD) affect over 1 billion people worldwide and are a significant cause of chronic illness and mortality.
Lionel Blanc, Ph.D., professor in the Institute of Molecular Medicine at the Feinstein Institutes, heads the seven-year initiative. The initiative aims to build on previous research and shed light on DBA, SCD, and anemia. Dr. Blanc and his team will specifically attempt to unravel the processes and malfunction of erythropoiesis, or the production of red blood cells, in those disorders.
This grant will help fund three research projects:
- The study of ribosome and cell cycle length regulation in fetal vs. adult erythropoiesis
- The exploration of the erythromyeloblastic island associated with DBA and SCD
- A focus on identifying and testing novel drugs for these hematologic disorders
Dr. Blanc is a leader in hematology research. Last year, he published research in Blood showing that the high mobility group box-1 protein (HMGB1) prevents the body from producing sufficient oxygen-rich red blood cells. In 2019, he received a $2.5 million grant from the NIH to study treatment for erythropoietic disorders, including DBA.
KEY QUOTES:
“Understanding red cell blood disorders, how they develop and progress, is essential given their global impact on millions. This grant from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute will help pave the way for innovative treatments and improve the quality of life for those affected.”
– Dr. Blanc
“Dr. Blanc’s work in uncovering the fundamental molecular mechanisms of red blood cell disorders paves a path towards novel therapeutic approaches. His translational research forms the foundation for identifying innovative treatments for complex blood disorders.”
– Kevin J. Tracey, MD, president and CEO of the Feinstein Institutes and Karches Family Distinguished Chair in Medical Research
