NIH Funds $500 Million for Gene Therapy Research Targeting Sickle Cell Disease
β’ NIH awarded $500 million in grants on April 7, 2026, to 15 US institutions for CRISPR-based gene therapies addressing 100,000 Americans with sickle cell disease. β’ Phase 2 trials at Boston Children's show 94% pain crisis reduction; total funding supports 200 patients over five years. β’ Initiative responds to 17% US mortality drop goal by 2030; 'Breakthrough for underserved communities,' per NIH Director.
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