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Structure and physicochemical characterisation of heparin
1National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, South Mimms, Hertfordshire, UK. Barbara.Mulloy@nibsc.hpa.org.uk
Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology
|May 9, 2012
Summary
Heparin, a complex glycosaminoglycan, exhibits structural variations impacting its therapeutic use. Advanced analytical techniques are crucial for ensuring heparin
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Heparin is a glycosaminoglycan with a complex, variable structure.
- Its conformation is rod-like but with internal motion due to iduronate residues.
- Structure-function relationships remain debated, necessitating advanced analytical methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the characterization techniques for heparin.
- To highlight the importance of purity and consistency in heparin therapeutics.
- To discuss emerging synthetic heparin alternatives.
Main Methods:
- Physico-chemical techniques including chromatography for molecular weight determination.
- Spectroscopic methods for structural analysis.
- Mass spectrometry for mapping and sequence analysis.
Main Results:
- Various analytical methods are available for heparin characterization.
- Ensuring heparin purity and consistency is vital, especially after contamination incidents.
- New techniques combine old and new methods for robust analysis.
Conclusions:
- Heparin's complex structure requires sophisticated analytical approaches.
- Analytical advancements are key to ensuring the safety and efficacy of heparin therapeutics.
- Development of synthetic heparins may offer future therapeutic options.
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