Histidine-rich Glycoprotein Modulates the Blood-vascular System in Septic Condition

Histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG) is a 75 kDa glycoprotein synthesized in the liver whose plasma concentration is 100-150 μg/ml. HRG has been shown to modulate sepsis-related biological reactions by binding to several substances and cells, including heparin, factor XII, fibrinogen, thrombospondin, plasminogen, C1q, IgG, heme, LPS, dead cells, bacteria, and fungi. Therefore, reduction of plasma HRG levels in sepsis leads to dysregulation of coagulation, fibrinolysis, and immune response, resulting in disseminated intravascular coagulation and multiple organ failure. This review summarizes the binding and functional properties of HRG in sepsis.