New drug may help kids with sickle cell disease get life-changing transplants despite antibody barriers

This study tests whether giving a drug called daratumumab before a stem cell transplant can prevent a serious complication called pure red blood cell aplasia in children with sickle cell disease. The transplant uses a gentle, low-intensity approach and a matched sibling donor. About 12 children and teens aged 2 to 24 who have antibodies against their donor's red blood cells will take part. The goal is to see if this approach improves survival and reduces complications one year after transplant.