Observational Study to Deeply Phenotype Major Organs in Sickle Cell Disease After Curative Therapies
Recruiting · Bethesda, Maryland
Always free
Study care at no cost to you
For your time and travel
Many studies pay you back
Most need no insurance or papers
Legal status usually isn't required; we'll tell you each study's requirements
Interpreters available
Ask for your language
Your choice
Voluntary — you can stop anytime
What is this study?
Background: People with sickle cell disease (SCD) have problems with their heart, brain, kidneys, liver, and lungs as they age. These problems may improve after transplant.
It is , overseen by an independent and licensed medical staff.
Read the full clinical description
Background: People with sickle cell disease (SCD) have problems with their heart, brain, kidneys, liver, and lungs as they age. These problems may improve after transplant. Researchers want to learn how and why this happens. Objective: To study the benefits of treatments that are intended to cure SCD. Eligibility: People aged 18 and older with SCD who are either receiving curative therapy in the next 3 months or don t have any plans to receive a curative therapy in the next 2 years. Design: At their first visit, participants will be screened with their medical history and a physical exam. Participants will then have a baseline visit. This will take about a week to complete and will include: Blood and heart tests MRI of the brain, heart, and lungs. Participants will lie on a bed that will move into the MRI scanner. Special padding may be placed around their head to keep it still. Interactive games. Participants will complete computer games that test memory, attention, problem solving, language, spatial orientation, processing speed, and emotion. Questionnaire rating quality of life Iothalamate test. An IV catheter will be placed into a vein. A contrast agent will be injected through the IV. Blood will then be collected at different time points. Lung function tests and a 6-minute walk test Vibration controlled transient elastography. A probe placed on the abdomen will measure liver scarring. DOS test. A light attached to the finger or toe will measure blood oxygen. Participants will have an end-of-study visit about 2 years after their baseline visit. This will include repeats of the baseline visit tests.
Are you a good fit?
Simplified highlights. The study team always confirms the full details with you.
- ✓Adults roughly 18–100
- ✓Have Sickle cell disease
- !Not for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding
What to expect, step by step
- 1
Usually a few weeks
The study team checks whether the study is a good fit for you, with a visit and sometimes lab tests. You can ask any questions before deciding.
- 2
Treatment
If you join and choose to continue, you receive the study treatment and are watched closely by medical staff.
- 3
Follow-up
After treatment, the team checks on your health and confirms the visit schedule with you. You can leave the study at any point.
Has this treatment been tested before?
The study team can share what safety testing has been done so far.
What you need to know before you apply
What is this study testing?+
Background: People with sickle cell disease (SCD) have problems with their heart, brain, kidneys, liver, and lungs as they age. These problems may improve after transplant.
Is it safe? Who makes sure of that?+
This is a research study. Every study is reviewed and monitored by an independent ethics board (called an IRB) whose job is to protect participants, and care is overseen by licensed medical staff. You'll be told the known risks before you agree to anything, and you can stop at any time.
Will I get a placebo instead of the real treatment?+
Some studies compare a treatment against a placebo (an inactive version), and some don't. If this one does, the study team will explain your chances of receiving the active treatment before you decide. Nothing is hidden from you.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications?+
It depends on the study. Some let you stay on your current medications and some ask you to adjust them. Never stop a medication on your own — the study team will review everything with you first.
Does it cost anything? Will I be paid?+
Study-related care is provided at no cost to you. Some studies also pay for your time; the coordinator can tell you if this one does. You should never be asked to pay to take part.
Do I need insurance? Will anyone ask about my immigration status?+
No. You do not need health insurance to take part in a research study, and you will not be asked about your immigration status to join. Taking part is about whether you're a medical fit for the study.
What if English isn't my first language?+
You have the right to understand everything before you agree. Study sites can often provide materials or an interpreter in your language — you can ask the coordinator for one.
Is my information private?+
Yes. Your health information is only shared with the study sites you choose to be contacted by, and only to help match and enroll you. It is never sold, and you can ask us to delete it at any time.
Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · NCT05213572 · Locations: Maryland