Sensitization and organ transplantation
Are you a highly sensitized person who has received a solid organ transplant, is currently on the waiting list or have you cared for someone who is affected? If so, researchers would love to hear from you.
Sensitization is where a recipient's immune system develops antibodies against Human leukocyte antigens (HLA) making it harder to find a suitable donor and increasing the risk of organ rejection. Women are more likely to be impacted because of pregnancy sensitization. This is where, during pregnancy, the body's immune response is exposed to Rh-positive blood, typically from a developing foetus, which contributes to sensitization.
They are looking for 3-5 individuals to participate in a one hour online discussion with researchers from the Blood and Transplant Research Unit in Organ Donation and Transplantation. The researchers wish to submit an application to fund a project on the topic on Sensitization. They need the voices of those directly impacted to ensure the research is fit for purpose.
If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of please contact Hannah.Murray@newcastle.ac.uk before 14th July 2025. They only have a short amount of time to develop the application. If you're interested you would need to be available for an online call within the next two weeks or if you would prefer you can provide written feedback via email instead. You will be compensated for your time in line with NIHR guidance, receiving £25 for your involvement.
If you have any questions, or would like to get involved, please contact Hannah.Murray@newcastle.ac.uk as soon as possible.