Genetically altered protein molecule stops bleeding at faster rate

Researchers have genetically modified the FXa protein, which acts as a kind of bandage on a cellular level, to be even stronger clotting agent.

Individuals are often prescribed anticoagulants to treat strokes and heart attacks, but the risk of bleeding still presents significant challenges for physicians. Researchers have genetically modified the FXa clotting protein to improve its ability to stop bleeding in anticoagulant patients.

"This molecule holds the potential to fill an important unmet clinical need," said study leader Rodney A. Camire, PhD, a hematology researcher in the Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. "There are limited treatment options to stop uncontrolled bleeding in patients who are using the newer anticoagulant medications."

Researchers were able to use bioengineering techniques to change the shape of the natural FXa protein, making it more powerful and longer lasting. Testing the new molecule on mice showed it was able ot fully restore blood-clotting abilities, greatly reducing the amount of blood lost.

"Our next steps will be to test this approach in large animals to help determine whether this variant is effective and safe, and may progress to clinical trials," said Camire. "If so, we may be able to develop an important treatment to rapidly control bleeding in both children and adults."