Researchers to Study How the Brain Is Affected by Sickle Cell Disease

A research team is conducting two projects to learn more about neurological problems, including cognitive impairment and stroke, in people with sickle cell disease (SCD). Led by Hyacinth I. Hyacinth, PhD, at the University of Cincinnati, the team will focus on how various anti-inflammatory medications might act to prevent…

Inflammation in Airways of Sickle Cell Children Distinct from Asthma Alone, Pilot Study Suggests

White blood cells, especially monocytes, may underlie the breathing difficulties affecting children with sickle cell disease (SCD), a small pilot study suggests. Asthma is estimated to impact from 17% to 28% of all children with SCD, its researchers noted, and obstructive lung disease — which affects exhaling — is…

White Blood Cells Regulate Levels of Fetal Hemoglobin in Sickle Cell Patients, Study Shows

White blood cells were seen to produce molecules that decrease a specific type of hemoglobin — the protein in red blood cells that’s responsible for the transport of oxygen — in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). These findings may help in the understanding of disease mechanisms, as well as resistance…