Plain-English translation of NCT00542230 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This research study is looking for new medicines that could help people with sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait. Researchers will take small blood samples from you and test them in the laboratory to find compounds that might prevent sickling — the process where red blood cells become stiff and block blood vessels. Right now, hydroxyurea is the only approved medicine for sickle cell disease, but it doesn't work completely for everyone, so scientists are searching for additional options.
Sickle cell disease causes serious pain and organ damage because abnormal hemoglobin in red blood cells clumps together and creates blockages in blood vessels. Current treatments help some patients but not all, so researchers need to discover new medicines that could offer better options.
You likely qualify if…
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You would visit the research center to have your blood tested to confirm whether you have sickle cell trait or disease. After that, you would be asked to donate small amounts of fresh blood periodically for laboratory testing. Researchers will use your samples to screen hundreds of potential new compounds to see which ones might prevent sickling and could become helpful medicines in the future.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 3, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States
Enrollment target
~250 participants
Started
November 2007
Age range
18 Years – 100 Years
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in May 2026.
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Central contact
William A Eaton, M.D.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.