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COVID-19: A case for plasma derived natural anticoagulants?

Rainer Seitz1, Lutz Gürtler2, Wolfgang Schramm3

  • 1Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany.

Biologicals : Journal of the International Association of Biological Standardization
|June 26, 2024
PubMed

Convalescent plasma was proposed for passive immunization against COVID-19; but so far there are conflicting results and still open questions. However, besides antibodies, other plasma proteins may be good candidates for further research and application. Thromboinflammation frequently complicates severe COVID-19, and classical anticoagulants like heparins seem to have limited effect. The natural protease inhibitors antithrombin III (ATIII), α1-antitrypsin (α1-AT) and α2-macroglobulin (α2-M), which are found decreased in severe COVD-19, play a crucial role in prothrombotic and inflammatory pathways. While ATIII and α1-AT are licensed as commercially prepared therapeutic concentrates, there is no preparation of α2-M available. The diagnostic, prognostic, and even therapeutic potential of plasma protease inhibitors should be further explored.

Keywords:
Antithrombin IIICOVID-19Plasmaα1-Antitrypsinα2-Macroglobulin

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