Bethesda, MD 20892
Description
The severe anemia associated with hematologic disorders such as β thalassemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, and congenital dyserythropoietic anemia, arises from defects in late stage erythroid maturation (dyserythropoiesis). In contrast to anemias resulting from early stage defects, this group of disorders are resistant to erythropoietin (EPO) therapy since late-stage erythroblast differentiation and maturation is EPO independent. Transfusion, often associated with iron overload and alloimmunization, remains the principal approach to care. Fortunately, however, several molecular determinants of dyserythropoiesis have been recently identified. It is possible that these discoveries may reveal common pathways leading to dyserythropoiesis. This workshop will consider the gaps in our knowledge and technology that are barriers to our understanding of the underlying biologies that may lead to effective new treatments for late stage erythroid maturation defects. This workshop will also provide an opportunity for the research community to cooperatively consider the essential next steps for the field.
Contact
Manjit Hanspal, Ph.D.
Program Director
Molecular, Cellular and Systems Blood Science Branch
Division of Blood Diseases and Resources
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NIH
6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7950, Room 9158
Bethesda, MD 20892-7950
Tel: 301-435-0070; Fax: 301-480-1046
E-mail: hanspalm@nhlbi.nih.gov