Is the use of GCSF to mobilize peripheral blood stem cells in sickle cell disease the answer to poor mobilization? Not so fast

Alzahrani et al. report their single-centre experience on the use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) plus plerixafor mobilization in individuals with sickle cell disease undergoing gene therapy. This approach was associated with a reduced number of peripheral blood stem cells mobilization cycles. Although the results are encouraging, additional studies are required to establish the safety and feasibility of this approach. Commentary on: Alzahrani et al. The use of G-CSF for stem cell mobilization in patients with sickle cell disease undergoing gene therapy. Br J Haematol 2026 (Online ahead of print). doi: 10.1111/bjh.70866.