LDL-apheresis on affine haemosorbents

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials science
• Cardiovascular research
• Medical technology

Background:

• Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disorder characterized by high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
• Effective LDL removal therapies are crucial for managing cardiovascular risk in FH patients.
• Current treatments may have limitations, necessitating the development of novel approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and evaluate novel hemosorbents for selective LDL removal.
• To assess the hemo- and biocompatibility of these new sorbents.
• To determine the cholesterol sorption capacity and efficacy in FH patients.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of macroporous silica-based hemosorbents immobilized with heparin (sorbent 1) and chitosan-sulfate (sorbent 2).
• In vitro assessment of hemo- and biocompatibility and cholesterol sorption capacity.
• Pilot clinical studies involving familial hypercholesterolemia patients to evaluate sorbent 1 efficacy.

Main Results:

• The synthesized hemosorbents exhibited satisfactory hemo- and biocompatibility.
• No significant alterations in biochemical parameters were observed during experimental use.
• Both sorbents demonstrated an equal cholesterol sorption capacity of 15 mg per gram.
• Sorbent 1 showed significant cholesterol withdrawal in pilot clinical studies with FH patients.

Conclusions:

• The developed hemosorbents are safe and effective for LDL removal.
• Sorbent 1 shows promise as a therapeutic option for familial hypercholesterolemia.
• Hemosorption represents a viable strategy for managing hypercholesterolemia.