New radiation technique aims to make stem cell transplants safer for sickle cell patients

NCT ID NCT05384756

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This early-phase trial tests a new way to prepare people with sickle cell disease for a stem cell transplant. Instead of full-body radiation, doctors use targeted radiation to the bone marrow and lymph nodes, along with drugs to prevent rejection and graft-versus-host disease. The goal is to see if this approach is safe and can reduce side effects while still allowing the new stem cells to take hold.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Alemtuzumab and sirolimus (drugs) plus total marrow and lymphoid irradiation (radiation therapy)

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could make stem cell transplants safer and more effective for people with sickle cell disease, reducing organ damage from radiation.

What could go wrong

This is a very early phase 1 trial with only 2 participants, so results may not apply to others. There are risks of graft-versus-host disease, infection, and other serious side effects.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

sickle cell disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • City of Hope Medical Center

    Duarte, California, 91010, United States