Hema Now
In this episode of Hema Now, Karina Yazdanbakhsh speaks about her journey into immunology, the challenges of alloimmunisation, and the evolving landscape of transfusion medicine. She also reflects on receiving the prestigious Henry M. Stratton Medal for Basic Research at ASH 2025 and what this recognition means for her work. The conversation explores key insights from ASH 2025, highlights pressing immunological issues in sickle cell disease, and looks ahead to emerging technologies shaping personalised transfusion strategies.
Spotify | Apple | Amazon Music | YouTube | Download MP3 (24 mins)
Karina Yazdanbakhsh is Senior Vice President and Executive Director of the Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute at New York Blood Center Enterprises, New York City, USA. Yazdanbakhsh earned her PhD in immunology and has built an internationally recognised career focused on red blood cell immunology, transfusion medicine, and immune complications of blood disorders, including sickle cell disease.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
00:59 – Stratton Medal meaning
02:19 – ASH 2025 highlights
13:11 – Sickle cell challenges
17:00 – Immune tolerance evolution
18:55 – Institute research priorities
27:20 – Novel therapeutics role
29:04 – Early career advice
29:43 – Emerging technologies impact
32:30 – Three magic wishes for healthcare
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this episode belong to the speakers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of EMJ.
Disclosure: Yazdanbakhsh has declared grants/contracts and support for the present work from National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI).
