University of Washington researchers have created PolySTAT, a new injectable polymer that strengthens blood clots. The polymer, administered in a single shot, addresses internal injuries and reduces blood loss.
In the initial study with rats, 100 percent of animals injected with PolySTAT survived a typically-lethal injury to the femoral artery. Only 20 percent of rats treated with a similar natural protein survived.
The UW team was inspired by factor XIII, a natural protein found in the body that helps strengthen blood clots. Both PolySTAT and factor XIII strengthen clots by binding fibrin strands together and adding “cross-links” that reinforce the latticework of that natural bandage.
The synthetic PolySTAT offers greater protection against natural enzymes that dissolve blood clots. The enzymes, which cut fibrin strands, do not target the synthetic PolySTAT bonds integrated into the clot. The UW team also used a highly specific peptide that only binds to fibrin at the wound site.
Though the polymer’s initial safety profile looks promising, researchers said, next steps include testing on larger animals and additional screening to find out if PolySTAT binds to any other unintended substances. The researchers also plan to investigate its potential for treating hemophilia and for integration into bandages.
