NCT05012111 · National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Natural History of Acquired and Inherited Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes
What this study is about
Background: Bone marrow failure diseases are rare. Much is known about the diseases at the time of diagnosis, but long-term data about the effects of the diseases and treatments are lacking. Researchers want to better understand long-term outcomes in people with these diseases.
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Background: Bone marrow failure diseases are rare. Much is known about the diseases at the time of diagnosis, but long-term data about the effects of the diseases and treatments are lacking. Researchers want to better understand long-term outcomes in people with these diseases. Objective: To follow people diagnosed with acquired or inherited bone marrow failure disease and study the long-term effects of the disease and its treatments on organ function. Eligibility: People aged 2 years and older who have been diagnosed with acquired or inherited bone marrow failure or Telomere Biology Disorder. First degree family members may also be able to take part in the study. Design: Participants will be screened with a medical history, physical exam, and blood tests. They may have a bone marrow biopsy and aspiration. For this, a large needle will be inserted in the hip through a small cut. Marrow will be drawn from the bone. A small piece of bone may be removed. Participants may also be screened with some of the following: Cheek swab or hair follicle sample Skin biopsy Urine or saliva sample Evaluation by disease specialists (e.g., lung, liver, heart) Imaging scan of the chest Liver ultrasounds Six-Minute Walk Test Lung function test Participants will be put into groups based on their disease. They will have visits every 1 to 3 years. At visits, they may repeat some screening tests. They may fill out yearly surveys about their medicines, transfusions, pregnancy, bleeding, and so on. They may have other specialized procedures, such as imaging scans and ultrasounds. Participation will last for up to 20 years.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- To be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria. Subjects and their family members who undergo screening but ultimately do not meet criteria for cohorts 1-5 will be removed from the study. Subjects may forgo screening and sign directly onto cohorts 1-5 if they meet criteria based on either prior NIH testing or external examinations. Family members will only be asked to be screened for participation onto this study after confirmation of eligibility by an affected participant. Cohorts 1-4
- Age \>=2 years
- Diagnosis of acquired or inherited bone marrow failure or ineffective hematopoiesis or TBD (see below for cohort 3 specific criteria)
- Ability and willingness to come to the NIH CC for consultation and testing
- Ability of subject or Legally Authorized Representative (LAR) to understand the investigational nature of the protocol and their willingness to sign a written informed consent document.
- For cohort 3 - TBD: Presence of a pathogenic, likely pathogenic, or known family mutation in a telomere maintenance gene OR If mutation negative or VUS, telomere length \<10th percentile in lymphocytes with at least two clinical features: 1) cytopenia (Hb \<10g/dL or ANC \<1.5x10\^9 or platelets \<100), 2) documented liver fibrosis by histology OR abnormal liver US / fibro scan consistent with fatty liver or fibrosis), 3) documented pulmonary fibrosis by histology / radiology OR PFTs showing FEV1 \<80% or DLCO \<60%, 4) family history of: marrow failure, myeloid malignancy, liver fibrosis or lung fibrosis. Cohort 5
- Age \>= 2 years
- First degree family member with a known or suspected inherited bone marrow failure syndrome from a patient enrolled on this or another NIH protocol as determined by a PI or AI
- Ability and willingness to safely provide blood, buccal swab, or fibroblasts for testing as stated by subject
- Ability of subject or Legally Authorized Representative (LAR) to understand the investigational nature of the protocol and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations