NBF Early Career Grant Recipient Publishes Research in Multiple Journals

Angelo D’Alessandro, PhD, University of Colorado, Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, reported that studies funded through a 2016 National Blood Foundation Scientific Research Grant have been published in 10 peer-reviewed journals, with additional publication likely. D’Alessandro’s research, in collaboration with Yang Xia, MD, PhD, University of Texas, Houston, focuses on the role of purinergic signaling in mediating RBC metabolism in vivo and during storage under blood bank conditions. Specifically, D’Alessandro’s goal has been to use integrated physiology, animal models and in vitro data to establish the role of purinergic signaling in mediating RBC metabolism and oxygen-dependent metabolic modulation; examine RBC metabolic rewiring on exposure to oxidative stress both in vitro and in vivo; and identify RBC metabolic markers of the storage lesion and use statistical modeling to predict the potential benefits of alternate storage additives based on compounds that stimulate purinergic signaling. His research has appeared in publications including “Blood,” “Circulation,” “Journal of Proteome Research,” “Nature Communications” and “Transfusion.” His work has also been highlighted in “Science” magazine. In addition, D’Alessandro has presented his findings at national and international conferences. He expects to submit additional studies for publication in the upcoming months.