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Updated: Jul 28, 2025
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Use of Animal Model of Sepsis to Evaluate Novel Herbal Therapies
Published on: April 11, 2012
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Heparin, Heparan Sulphate and Sepsis: Potential New Options for Treatment
John Hogwood1, Elaine Gray2, Barbara Mulloy2
1National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Blanche Lane, South Mimms EN6 3QG, UK.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 1, 2023
Summary
Heparin mimetics, structurally similar to heparan sulphate, show promise for treating sepsis. These compounds may offer therapeutic benefits for sepsis by modulating inflammatory responses without the anticoagulant risks associated with heparin.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Sepsis involves damaging hyperinflammatory responses to infection.
- Heparan sulphate (HS), a cell surface glycosaminoglycan, plays a role in sepsis pathways.
- Heparin, a related molecule, has anticoagulant properties that limit its use in sepsis treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the therapeutic potential of heparin derivatives and mimetics in sepsis.
- To investigate compounds that leverage HS-like properties for sepsis treatment while minimizing side effects.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on heparan sulphate, heparin, and sepsis.
- Analysis of structural similarities and differences between HS and heparin.
- Evaluation of heparin derivatives and mimetics for reduced anticoagulant activity.
Main Results:
- Heparin influences sepsis processes due to structural resemblance to HS.
- The anticoagulant activity of heparin poses significant risks (e.g., bleeding).
- Development of heparin mimetics with attenuated anticoagulant potency is feasible.
Conclusions:
- Heparin mimetics offer a potential therapeutic strategy for sepsis.
- These agents may provide benefits by targeting sepsis-related mechanisms without the adverse effects of heparin.
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