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Updated: Apr 28, 2026

Author Spotlight: Advancing Thrombolytic Testing by Integrating Flow Dynamics in In Vitro Models
Published on: April 19, 2024
Novel or expanding current targets in fibrinolysis
Tine Wyseure1, Paul J Declerck1
1Laboratory for Therapeutic and Diagnostic Antibodies, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Abstract:
Globally the leading cause of long-term disability and mortality stems from cardiovascular diseases, which creates an enormous economic burden. Currently available treatments for intravascular thrombosis consist of a large repertoire of antithrombotic agents targeting coagulation and platelet function. However, the only agents available to enhance fibrinolysis are recombinant or modified forms of plasminogen activators. Their clinical use is limited by low efficacy, life-threatening side-effects (primarily caused by the high systemic dose required) and the inapplicability for prophylactic use. This review provides an update on the latest advances in targeting the antifibrinolytic proteins, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor, and will highlight novel therapeutic avenues to enhance fibrinolysis.
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