‘Advancements’ TV Show to Feature State-of-the-Art Research in Bleeding Disorders

An upcoming episode of the TV series “Advancements,” hosted by Ted Danson, will be dedicated to current and future research and therapeutics for inheritable bleeding disorders.

The new episode will feature work developed by the National Hemophilia Foundation (NHF) and explore the non-profit’s programs in bleeding diseases, such as hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, and rare clotting factor deficiencies.

For broadcast schedule, please check your local listings.

Rare factor deficiencies are collectively characterized by missing or defective clotting proteins, other than those that cause hemophilia A (factor VIII), hemophilia B (factor IX) and von Willebrand disease (von Willebrand factor).

“The National Hemophilia Foundation is excited to participate in this unique opportunity,” Leonard Valentino, MD, president and CEO of NHF, said in a press release.

The NHF aims to advance the way bleeding disorders are treated, harnessing the power of new technologies to advance research and make novel therapies available.

Viewers will have the opportunity to learn from experts and be educated on cutting edge experimental treatments, including cell therapy and gene therapy, currently under development for bleeding disorders.

“Technology plays a key role in the bleeding disorders community and will dictate where we will go with treatments and care from gene therapy to novel technologies and cell therapy on the horizon,” Valentino said.

Gene therapies work by delivering a working copy of the human clotting factor that is missing or defective, with the intent of durably restoring production of the coagulation protein. Several gene therapies are being tested for hemophilia A or B, including Roctavian by BioMarin, BAY 2599023 by Bayer and Ultragenyx Pharmaceuticals, and FLT180a by Freeline.

The principle behind cell therapies for a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia A, is to use stem cells of people with the disease and modify them to produce a functional factor VIII. This is done by transforming the stem cells into endothelial cells, which line the inside of blood vessels and are the main cells responsible for the production of factor VIII.

“Bleeding disorders have been documented throughout history and can be found in writings as far back as the second century AD,” said Richard Lubin, senior producer for “Advancements.” “We look forward to exploring how technology, research, and NHF’s dedication is opening doors for breakthrough treatment options for hemophilia and similar bleeding disorders.”

“Advancement” is an information-based educational program informing the public about state-of-the-art, technological advancements put forward to answer key health and societal challenges.