Clinical Research

Achievements

• Decreased post-surgical bleeding

  Patients undergoing heart surgery often receive Heparin to decrease the incidence of clotting. For some patients, however, Heparin can induce excessive post-surgical bleeding. Versiti researchers created a test for Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), so physicians can identify the source of this bleeding and discontinue Heparin therapy.

• Safer pregnancies

  In certain instances, a pregnant woman’s immune system can react against the fetus and destroy its platelets. This condition is known as Neonatal Alloimmune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (NATP). Versiti researchers were the first to identify the platelet markers most commonly implicated in NATP, and formulated a DNA detection test that has resulted in decreased fetal deaths.

• More successful transplants

  Versiti researchers were the first to discover certain white cell markers, called HLA markers, that are important to match to maximize the success of a transplant. They then developed genetic typing that allows for more accurate matching of bone marrow donors with patients, decreasing the incidence of rejection.

• Hope for newborns

  Protein C-deficient newborns do not live long because their blood is unable to properly regulate the clotting process, causing them to have profound systemic clotting. Versiti researchers defined the role of protein C in clot regulation, and created the first successful treatment for protein C-deficient newborns.

• Safer transfusions

  Patients in need of frequent transfusions can develop reactions to the blood they receive. Through a technique involving the matching of certain markers on platelets, the incidence of reactions following transfusions has decreased.

• Safer treatment for hemophilia patients

  By early recognition of the risks of pooled product, Versiti researchers helped to reduce the incidence of HIV in this population by providing an alternate product.

• Extended blood supply

  Versiti researchers have determined methods for improving the quality and quantity of stored platelets. Those needing platelets include surgery patients, organ transplant recipients and patients undergoing chemotherapy.

• Better treatment for sickle cell patients
  Researchers have participated in studies leading to improved treatments for sickle cell patients. Sickle cell disease impacts about 1 in 400 African Americans.