Jenifer Gomez Pastora receives a grant from the NIH to improve sickle cell disease

Jenifer Gomez Pastora, an assistant professor in Texas Tech University’s Department of Chemical Engineering at the Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering, has received a $150,220 grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the National Institutes of Health to study new ways to predict complications in sickle cell disease. 

The project, “Sickle Cell Disease Severity Prediction from the Magnetic Signature and Hemoglobin Content of Blood Cells”, focuses on developing technology to detect vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), the most common and dangerous complication of sickle cell disease. VOCs are acute pain episodes that account for roughly 95% of hospitalizations among patients and are a leading factor in shortened life expectancy. 

“There are currently no diagnostic tools available to detect VOCs before they occur,” Gomez Pastora said. “Our goal is to create an inexpensive, portable system that can identify patients at risk and allow for earlier intervention.” 

The researchers will use magnetic tools to analyze blood cells from sickle cell patients, with an emphasis on studying monocytes and other cell types obtained through the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. By examining the magnetic properties of these cells, the team aims to predict the likelihood of VOCs and provide new insights into how the disease progresses. 

“This project not only seeks to improve clinical outcomes but also deepens our understanding of the cellular processes driving sickle cell complications,” Gomez Pastora said. 

The long-term impact of the project could include better disease management, improved quality of life for patients and more effective use of preventative care.