DETROIT NEWS: U-M research discovery could help sickle cell patients

By Amy Biolchini County, health and environment reporter

Posted on Tue, Mar 5, 2013 : 4:53 p.m.

A sickle-shaped red blood cell.

AnnArbor.com file photo

A recent discovery by researchers at the University of Michigan may offer sickle cell anemia patients a new treatment option, according to media reports.

U-M researchers found that an antidepressant has the potential to lessen the effects of the blood disorder on patients, the Detroit News reported.

Sickle cell anemia is a hereditary disease. The red blood cells contort into shapes like crescents or sickles, affecting their ability to carry oxygen to body tissues from the lungs -- which has serious implications over time.

A clinical trial will soon launch at Wayne State University with the use of the antidepressant.

Read the full story in the Detroit News

Tags: University of Michigan, sickle cell anemia

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Amy Biolchini covers Washtenaw County, health and environmental issues for AnnArbor.com. Reach her at (734) 623-2552, amybiolchini@annarbor.com or on Twitter.