Advance against sickle cell

Preliminary research reveals partially matched bone marrow may cure sickle cell disease in some patients.

Johns Hopkins scientists were able to eliminate sickle cell in eight patients who received half-matched donor marrow.

All eight were free of anemia and painful bouts from the disease, and most no longer needed medication.

It’s encouraging news because perfectly-matched donors are very difficult to find.

But parents, children and most siblings can be half matched donors.