Heparanase expression and activity are increased in platelets during clinical sepsis

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Immunology

Background:

• Heparanase (HPSE) degrades heparan sulfate, a key component of the endothelial glycocalyx.
• HPSE contributes to endothelial barrier dysfunction and mortality during sepsis.
• Platelets are a significant source of HPSE in the body.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if HPSE expression and activity increase in human platelets during clinical sepsis.
• To examine the association between platelet HPSE levels and clinical outcomes in septic patients.

Main Methods:

• HPSE expression and activity were measured in platelets from septic patients and healthy donors.
• Techniques included transcriptomic, proteomic, and functional enzymatic assays.
• Septic patients were monitored for mortality, with prospective data collection.

Main Results:

• HPSE mRNA expression and protein synthesis were significantly upregulated in platelets during sepsis.
• Both pro- and active forms of HPSE increased, but only active HPSE correlated with mortality.
• HPSE enzymatic activity was also elevated in platelets from septic patients.

Conclusions:

• HPSE translation and enzymatic activity increase in human platelets during sepsis.
• Elevated active HPSE in platelets is associated with sepsis-related mortality.