Voxelotor is a medication used to treat sickle cell disease. It works by increasing the levels of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in the blood.
What is Fetal Hemoglobin?
Fetal hemoglobin is a type of hemoglobin that is present in the blood of fetuses and infants. It is different from the adult form of hemoglobin (HbA) because it has a higher affinity for oxygen. This means that HbF is better at carrying oxygen to the tissues, even when there is a low level of oxygen in the blood.
How Does Voxelotor Increase HbF Levels?
Voxelotor works by binding to a protein called beta-globin. This protein is a part of the hemoglobin molecule. When voxelotor binds to beta-globin, it prevents the hemoglobin molecule from being broken down. This allows more HbF to be produced, which can help to improve the symptoms of sickle cell disease.
How Does Increased HbF Help with Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle cell disease is caused by a mutation in the gene that codes for beta-globin. This mutation causes the red blood cells to become sickle-shaped. Sickle-shaped red blood cells are stiff and sticky, and they can block blood vessels. This can lead to pain, fatigue, and other symptoms.
Increasing HbF levels can help to improve the symptoms of sickle cell disease because HbF is better at carrying oxygen to the tissues. This can help to reduce the number of sickle-shaped red blood cells, which can improve blood flow and reduce pain.
Examples of How Voxelotor Works:
- Voxelotor can help to reduce the frequency and severity of pain crises.
- It can also improve blood flow and reduce the risk of stroke.
- Voxelotor can improve quality of life for people with sickle cell disease.
Conclusion:
Voxelotor is a promising new treatment for sickle cell disease. It works by increasing the levels of fetal hemoglobin in the blood, which can help to improve the symptoms of the disease.