Could swapping out red blood cells help treat a rare seizure disorder?
NCT ID NCT04137692
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether replacing a patient's own red blood cells with healthy donor cells can improve brain function in people with GLUT1 deficiency syndrome, a rare genetic condition that causes seizures and movement problems. The approach aims to boost glucose delivery to the brain by using donor cells that have normal glucose transporters. The trial plans to enroll 12 people aged 16 to 80 who have not been helped by the standard ketogenic diet.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- red blood cell exchange transfusion
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a new way to treat GLUT1 deficiency by improving glucose delivery to the brain, potentially reducing seizures and movement problems.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very early, small trial (12 people) that is currently suspended. The treatment is complex and carries risks like transfusion reactions or infection. It may not improve symptoms or could cause harm.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Weill Cornell Medicine
New York, New York, 10065, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.