Sickle Cell Disease Research Network

Facilitating Sickle Cell Disease Research to Improve Clinical Outcomes

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SCD Research

Industry-Sponsored Research

The ASH Research Collaborative® (ASH RC) recognizes that there needs to be novel therapeutics that treat the symptoms and the underlying causes of sickle cell disease (SCD) for there to be significant and substantial progress in conquering SCD. The SCD Research Network (SCD Network) engages with the pharmaceutical and biotech industry to leverage the expertise of its investigators to accelerate the development of new therapeutics.

To do this, the ASH RC and its SCD Network partner with the industry to:

  • Thoughtfully consider protocol designs and enlist the experts who conduct these trials to optimize feasibility and increase the likelihood of success.
  • Connect the right sites, with the right resources, interest, and time, to the right studies.
  • Enroll patients in the trials.

Services Offered

  • Protocol Design and Consultation
  • Scientific Review of Existing Protocols or Protocol Concepts
  • SCD Community Focus Groups
  • Site Feasibility and Interest
Sickle Cell Disease Industry Sponsored Research
Sickle Cell Disease Investigator Initiated Research

Investigator-Initiated Research

The ASH Research Collaborative® (ASH RC) SCD Research Network uses the power of its multi-center network and SCD experts to address key clinical questions and gaps in SCD care. In addition to traditional clinical trials that are focused on the development of new therapeutic options, research that generates evidence to guide screening and prevention, implementation of clinical care guidelines, and implementation of current and newly approved therapeutics are desperately needed. The types of studies facilitated through this effort may include observational, pragmatic, comparative effectiveness, and dissemination & implementation research.

The ASH RC periodically issues Requests for Applications (RFA) to members of its Research Network and provides seed funding to stimulate the development of ideas that translate into extramural funding applications. This initiative is designed to cultivate collaboration within the Network through peer-developed, peer-designed, and peer-reviewed work.

Current Portfolio of SCD Research Topics

  • Sleep medicine
  • Bone health
  • Neurocognitive function
  • Environmental factors
  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Transitions of care
  • Acute kidney injury

Have Ideas?

The SCD Research Network is interested in many different research topics that affect SCD. If you have an idea to engage with the Network, please complete this form: Protocol Concept Form

What We Look For

Clinical Impact and Innovation: We seek studies that have the potential to make a meaningful contribution to patient care if primary endpoints are met. Studies should also contribute to the development of future research, particularly those that introduce novel approaches in SCD research, care, or treatment.

Clinical Feasibility and Study Design: We prioritize studies with designs that are well-suited to address the research question and can meet their objectives efficiently using available resources. Studies should demonstrate the ability to achieve recruitment goals and ensure the collection of necessary assessments.

Relevance and Fit for the Network: We look for studies that align with ASH RC SCD Research Network priorities for SCD research and foster collaboration among sites and investigators to build a stronger Network.

Contact Us

If you are interested in engaging with the ASH RC’s Sickle Cell Disease Research Network, please contact info@ashrc.org for more details.