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Published on: June 14, 2021
Abstract:
Microplasmin (Thrombogenics Ltd., Leuven, Belgium) is a recombinant molecule consisting of the catalytic domain of human plasmin. It is highly characterized, and supplied in a stabilized form, simplifying storage and administration. Microplasmin shares the same catalytic properties like human plasmin, but it is much more stable compared to plasmin. It has been shown previously that both plasmin and microplasmin are capable of inducing PVD. This chapter focuses on one of the most promising current concepts of pharmacologic vitreolysis, i.e. microplasmin-assisted vitrectomy. We report on the preclinical work of plasmin and microplasmin which lead to the clinical investigation of microplasmin in different clinical trials, the so-called MIVI trials.
Insights
Microplasmin, a stable recombinant enzyme, effectively induces posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) for pharmacologic vitreolysis. Preclinical studies of microplasmin supported its clinical investigation in MIVI trials for vitreoretinal surgery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Microplasmin is a stabilized recombinant molecule containing the catalytic domain of human plasmin.
- It exhibits similar catalytic properties to plasmin but offers enhanced stability.
- Both plasmin and microplasmin have demonstrated the ability to induce posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To focus on microplasmin-assisted vitrectomy as a promising pharmacologic vitreolysis strategy.
- To review the preclinical research on plasmin and microplasmin.
- To highlight the progression to clinical trials investigating microplasmin.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical data on plasmin and microplasmin.
- Focus on the development of microplasmin for pharmacologic vitreolysis.
- Clinical investigation through MIVI trials.
Main Results:
- Microplasmin is a stable, characterized recombinant molecule.
- Microplasmin induces posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).
- Preclinical work led to clinical trials (MIVI trials).
Conclusions:
- Microplasmin is a promising agent for pharmacologic vitreolysis.
- Microplasmin-assisted vitrectomy represents a significant advancement in vitreoretinal procedures.
- Clinical trials are evaluating the efficacy and safety of microplasmin.
