This special session features cutting-edge research from recipients of the AABB Foundation’s Early-Career Scientific Research Grants Program. Each scholar will present findings from their recently completed, Foundation-funded studies—projects selected through a rigorous, multistep peer-review process. The work highlights emerging immunologic concepts that span fundamental mechanisms to translational applications in transfusion medicine, bleeding disorders, and infectious disease.
The session will open with a brief overview from an AABB Foundation Hall of Fame member, a leader in the field and early recipient of Foundation funding, who will contextualize the evolving landscape of immunologic science. Their remarks will be followed by concise research presentations from four AABB Foundation Scholars, whose work offers new insights into:
• Interferon activation and phagocyte expansion in sickle cell disease (Yunfeng Liu) • T-cell activation mechanisms driving factor VIII inhibitors in hemophilia A (Patricia Zerra) • T-cell engineering for SARS-CoV-2 in immunocompromised patients (Susan Conway)
A moderated discussion and audience Q&A will follow. This session offers a unique opportunity to learn from rising stars in the field as they tackle some of the most pressing immunologic challenges in transfusion and cellular therapy.
Learning Objectives:
Describe emerging mechanisms of immune activation in sickle cell disease, including the role of interferon signaling and mononuclear phagocyte expansion.
Explain the cellular and molecular pathways that drive the development of factor VIII inhibitors in hemophilia A, particularly the role of marginal zone B cells and CD4+ T cells.
Compare the functionality and specificity of SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells derived from naïve versus memory T cell compartments for use in cellular therapy.
Discuss how early-career research is shaping the next generation of translational immunologic interventions in transfusion medicine, hemophilia care, and infectious disease management.
Discover how the AABB Foundation Scientific Research Grants Program has advanced original research conducted by early-career investigators.
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