Matching blood stem cell donors and patients
Blood stem cells are used to cure or treat over 75 diseases including leukemia, lymphoma and sickle cell. The donation process begins with finding a blood stem cell donor match—and that match could be you.
How matching blood stem cell donors and patients works
What are human leukocyte antigens?
HLA genes code for proteins—or markers—found on most cells in your body. They're inherited from your biological parents, half from your mother and half from your father. Your immune system uses these markers to know which cells belong in your body and which do not. We use the cheek swab you supply when you join the NMDP RegistrySM to determine your HLA type.
Matching donors and patients using HLAs
For HLA matching, doctors look at up to 12 different markers on your DNA. This makes finding a match much harder because there are millions of possible combinations, and usually doctors want to match eight to ten of those 12 markers.
When handling umbilical cord blood donations though, doctors may only need to match four to six markers. Because of this matching process, NMDPSM is always seeking more umbilical cord blood donors.
How long does it take to find a match using HLAs?
With such a diversity of HLA types, the amount of time it takes for donors to match with patients can vary. If you have a common HLA type, you could match within a few months or years. If your type is rarer, it could take longer. Some registry members will never get matched.
Every registry member is essential to our work at NMDP—and there are even more ways to help get patients to transplant. From volunteering and financial giving to advocacy, it all helps further our mission.
How often are blood stem cell donors matched?
As the diversity of the population increases, more unique HLA types are being created, making full matches harder to find. However, new research and clinical trials from CIBMTR® (Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research®) , a research collaboration between the Medical College of Wisconsin and NMDP, is making it possible for patients to have a successful transplant even when paired with a donor who isn't a full match. This initiative, called NMDP Donor for All, means more transplants for patients in need and offers more opportunities to donate for NMDP Registry members!
Why age, ethnicity, and commitment matter
Younger donors lead to better outcomes, which is why doctors most often request donors ages 18 to 35. And since patients are more likely to match with someone of similar ancestry, a diverse registry is critical. Just as important is your readiness to say yes when called. Your commitment can save a life.
Learn more about how donation works
Not sure if you’re ready? That’s okay. Understanding the donation process is a powerful first step in deciding how you can help.
Ready to join the donor registry?
Join the NMDP Registry today it only—takes a few minutes to start your journey.