Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a chronic disease characterized by painful episodes, increased morbidity and mortality and has many unmet needs in effective treatment. While the pathophysiology of SCD is complex, hemolysis, red blood cell (RBC) vascular adhesion and an altered redox state all play key roles. Prior studies from our group support the hypothesis that the drug N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can modulate SCD by cleaving hyperactive von Willebrand factor, a vascular adhesion protein. In an ongoing study of NAC infusions in stable outpatients with SCD, we have found an effect on VWF, as well as an increase in the antioxidant activity in whole blood, plasma and red blood cells (RBC) and a decrease in RBC fragments and dense cells, among other findings. The drug has been well tolerated by subjects enrolled to date. We further hypothesize that NAC will be an effective treatment for SCD vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) by decreasing VWF adhesiveness and improving red blood cell function and viability. To obtain the data needed to develop a successful multicenter randomized placebo controlled trial of NAC in VOC, we propose the following Specific Aims: 1) To conduct a pilot study of NAC in patients presenting to the University of Washington Medical Center emergency room or inpatient unit in VOC, with NAC infusions continuing for 5 days or until discharge. Endpoints for this pilot study will be feasibility, safet, and measures of clinical efficacy. 2) To assess research laboratory correlates of NAC activity in this setting, including measures of VWF activity, VWF multimer composition, RBC fragments and dense cells, cellular aggregates, and measures reflective of antioxidant activity. This will increase our understanding of the mechanism(s) of NAC in treatment of SCD and inform the selection of laboratory biomarkers for the multicenter trial. And, 3) To develop a multicenter randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial of NAC in SCD vaso-occlusive crisis, with clinical response and laboratory endpoints chosen based on findings from this pilot trial and with engagement of sickle cell medical providers/investigators across the country. NAC is a promising, low cost therapy for VOC which could provide benefit for many patients with sickle cell disease.

Public Health Relevance

Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder of red blood cells that results in severe painful episodes termed vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC). Based on our preliminary data we believe that the drug N-acetylcysteine may be an effective treatment for VOC. We propose a pilot study in adults with sickle cell disease to prepare for a multicenter randomized trial of this treatment.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Type
Planning Grant (R34)
Project #
1R34HL128798-01
Application #
8954269
Study Section
Clinical Trials Review Committee (CLTR)
Program Officer
Kindzelski, Andrei L
Project Start
2015-09-01
Project End
2017-06-30
Budget Start
2015-09-01
Budget End
2016-06-30
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2015
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Puget Sound Blood Center
Department
Type
DUNS #
092881085
City
Seattle
State
WA
Country
United States
Zip Code
98104