NCT06313398 · National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Determination of Red Cell Survival in Sickle Cell Disease and Other Hemoglobinopathies Using Biotin Labeling
What this study is about
Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited disorder of the blood. SCD causes red blood cells (RBCs) to die early. This can lead to a shortage of healthy cells. SCD and other blood disorders can be managed with drugs or cured with a bone marrow transplant.
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Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited disorder of the blood. SCD causes red blood cells (RBCs) to die early. This can lead to a shortage of healthy cells. SCD and other blood disorders can be managed with drugs or cured with a bone marrow transplant. Researchers want to know how long RBCs survive in people with SCD and other blood disorders before and after treatment compared to those who had a bone marrow transplant. Objective: To learn how long RBCs survive in the body in people with SCD and other blood disorders compared to those whose disease was cured with a bone marrow transplant. Eligibility: People aged 18 years or older with SCD or another inherited blood disorder. People whose SCD or blood disorder was cured with a bone marrow transplant are also needed. Design: Participants will be screened. They will have a physical exam with blood and urine tests. Participants will have about 7 tablespoons of blood drawn. In the lab, this blood will be mixed with a vitamin called biotin. Biotin sticks to the outside of RBCs. This process is called "biotin labeling of RBCs." The next day, the participant s own biotin-labeled RBCs will be returned to their bloodstream. Participants will return regularly to have smaller blood samples (about 2 teaspoons) drawn. These samples will be tested to detect the percentage of cells that have biotin labels. These visits may be every 2 weeks, 4 weeks, or some other interval. Participants will continue this schedule for up to 20 weeks or until biotin can no longer be detected....
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
- In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- Provision of signed and dated informed consent form
- Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures and availability for the duration of the study
- Male or female, aged 18 years or greater with confirmed diagnosis of SCD (all genotypes), thalassemia (beta and/or alpha), or other inherited hemoglobinopathy not otherwise specified.
- Be at steady state for their underlying disease (e.g. SCD or thalassemia) or post-bone marrow transplantation status, as evidenced by medical history.
- Ability to have blood samples drawn.
- For female participants of child-bearing potential, agree to use birth control during study participation. Female subjects of child-bearing potential must agree to use a medically acceptable method of birth control such as an oral contraceptive, intrauterine device, barrier and spermicide, or contraceptive implant/injection from start of screening through 4 months after infusion.
- Agreement to adhere to Lifestyle Considerations throughout study duration
Exclusion criteria
- An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in this study:
- Consumption of biotin supplements or raw eggs within the last 30 days.
- Blood loss within the previous 8 weeks (\>540 mL).
- Red cell transfusion for their underlying SCD and/or thalassemia within the last 3 months. a. Participants may be eligible after three months following their last transfusion.
- Patients on hemodialysis, due to possibility of early removal of biotinylated RBCs.
- Pregnancy, lactation or absence of adequate contraception for fertile female subjects.
- Pediatric subjects will not participate in this study.
- Known allergic reactions to biotin, due to risk of possible life-threatening allergic reaction.
- Current diagnosis of malignancy (liquid and/or solid).
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 Feb 24, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations