Gene expression of HIF‐1α HIF‐1α and VEGF VEGF in response to hypoxia in sickle cell anaemia: Influence of hydroxycarbamide

摘要

Summary Hypoxia and hemoglobin S polymerization are two triggers responsible for initiating erythrocyte sickling and the consequent clinical sickle cell anemia (SCA) events. The objective of this study was to investigate the expression of hypoxia‐responsive genes in SCA, testing for correlation with the clinical–laboratorial characteristics of the patient and hydroxyurea therapy. Our results showed, for the first time, a significantly increased expression of HIF‐1α and VEGF genes in patients with SCA and an inverse dose–response relationship with hydroxyurea therapy. These results suggest that hypoxic stress may be involved in both the severity of SCA and its response to treatment.