Pilot study finds new biological pathways in sickle cell pain

A small pilot study by Rutgers University researchers found differences in blood proteins between people with high and low levels of pain from sickle cell disease, suggesting previously unknown drivers of pain and potential new strategies for treatment.

Why it matters. This research could lead to better understanding and new treatments for the chronic pain associated with sickle cell disease, which affects about 100,000 Americans, mostly non-Hispanic Black individuals.