Ineffective erythropoiesis (IE) is defined as the abnormal differentiation and excessive destruction of erythroblasts in the marrow, accompanied by an expanded progenitor compartment and relative reduction in the production of reticulocytes. It is a defining feature of many types of anemia, including beta-thalassemia. GATA1 is an essential transcription factor for erythroid differentiation, known to be implicated in hematological conditions presenting with IE, including beta-thalassemia and congenital dyserythropoietic anemia.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFContinuous vaso-occlusive and inflammatory processes cause extensive end-organ damage in adults with sickle cell disease (SCD), and there is little evidence that longterm hydroxyurea therapy prevents this. In initial trials, P-selectin blockade with crizanlizumab reduced SCD vaso-occlusive crisis frequency, and interleukin (IL)-1β inhibition in SCD patients, using canakinumab, lowered inflammatory markers. We used murine SCD models to examine the effects of acute and chronic blockade of Pselectin and of IL-1β on vaso-occlusive events, their inflammatory profile and organ health.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAll over the world, people with sickle cell disease (an inherited condition) have premature deaths and preventable severe chronic complications, which considerably affect their quality of life, career progression, and financial status. In addition, these people are often affected by stigmatisation or structural racism, which can contribute to stress and poor mental health. Inequalities affecting people with sickle cell disease are also reflected in the distribution of the disease—mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, India, and the Caribbean—whereas interventions, clinical trials, and funding are mostly available in North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIntravascular hemolysis (IVH) occurs in numerous inherited and acquired disorders, including sickle cell disease (SCD), malaria and sepsis. These diseases display unique symptoms, but often share complications, such as vasomotor dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension. Consequently, in vivo models are needed to study the effects of continuous intravascular hemolytic processes, independently of the molecular alteration or extrinsic factor that leads to erythrocyte destruction.
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