Cord Blood Transplant for Blood Disorders
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests the safety and effectiveness of using unlicensed cord blood units (blood from a newborn's umbilical cord) for stem cell transplants. These transplants can treat blood disorders like blood cancers. The trial targets individuals scheduled for a stem cell transplant as part of their treatment. Researchers will monitor participants for any issues during and after the transplant for up to a year. The study aims to determine if these unlicensed units can be a safe option for patients in need. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that cord blood units are safe for stem cell transplants?
Research shows that about 10,000 children and adults worldwide have received cord blood transplants to treat blood cancers and other diseases. Studies have found that cord blood is rich in stem cells, which help the body produce new blood cells and strengthen the immune system.
Cord blood transplants are generally considered safe, but like any medical treatment, they can have side effects. Common issues might include infections or reactions to the transplant, usually manageable with proper care and monitoring.
Although the cord blood units in this trial are not licensed, past use of cord blood in transplants has shown positive results, suggesting that the treatment is well-tolerated. Participants in the trial will be closely monitored for any problems during and after the transplant to ensure safety.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatment?
Researchers are excited about cord blood transplants for blood disorders because they offer a unique source of stem cells that can regenerate healthy blood cells. Unlike traditional bone marrow transplants, which require a close match between donor and recipient, cord blood transplants are less reliant on perfect matches, making it easier to find a suitable donor. Additionally, cord blood is rich in stem cells that have a potent ability to grow and form new blood cells, potentially leading to faster recovery times and lower risks of complications. This makes cord blood transplants a promising alternative, especially for patients who struggle to find a compatible bone marrow donor.
What evidence suggests that cord blood units are effective for blood disorders?
Research has shown that cord blood stem cells can treat around 80 diseases, particularly those affecting the blood, such as sickle cell disease. Studies have found that cord blood is rich in stem cells, which are crucial for rebuilding the blood and immune systems. Cord blood transplants perform comparably to bone marrow transplants, a common treatment for blood disorders. The cells from cord blood possess natural advantages, making them effective in treating these conditions. Overall, this evidence supports the potential success of using cord blood for stem cell transplants in individuals with blood disorders.23467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Richard W Childs, M.D.
Principal Investigator
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals of any age and gender who need a stem cell transplant due to conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, or anemia. They must be part of another clinical trial for the transplant and give informed consent. Those already receiving unlicensed cord blood from other banks or licensed products only cannot participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive the cord blood unit as part of their stem cell transplant procedure, performed according to the current standard of care
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the transplant, with all outcomes reported to the National Cord Blood Program and the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cord Blood Units
Cord Blood Units is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada, Japan for the following indications:
- Acute Leukemia
- Hemoglobinopathies
- Fanconi’s Anemia
- Immune or Metabolic Disorders
- Neuroblastoma
- Thalassemia
- Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID)
- Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome
- Metabolic Diseases
- Blood Cancers
- Leukemia
- Lymphoma
- Bone Marrow Failure
- Aplastic Anemia
- Genetic Diseases
- Immune System Disorders
- Acute Leukemia
- Hemoglobinopathies
- Fanconi’s Anemia
- Immune or Metabolic Disorders
- Leukemia
- Lymphoma
- Bone Marrow Failure
- Aplastic Anemia
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Collaborator
National Cord Blood Program, New York Blood Center
Collaborator