Next-generation heparin antidotes: "Exosomes as a biocompatible alternative to protamine sulfate"

Controlling bleeding is one of the most fundamental challenges in cardiac surgery. Bleeding is controlled by neutralising heparin with protamine. Our study investigates exosomes as an alternative treatment option to protamine for use in haemostasis.

Rats were divided into 5 groups, with 4 rats in each group: Group 1 underwent puncture, Group 2 underwent heparinised puncture, Group 3 received exosomes prior to heparinised puncture, Group 4 received exosomes prior to heparinised puncture with heparin neutralised by protamine, and Group 5 received heparinised puncture with exosomes administered during puncture. Biochemical analysis was made, histopathological analysis showing tissue damage and Mast Cell Activity (MAST )in lung tissues. Western blot method for SERPINC1 expression.

Despite high Activated Clotting Time levels, bleeding time was found to be shorter in the group treated with exosomes. In MAST analyses, Group 4 had the highest density, while Group 3 had a density close to that of the control group. A significant difference was detected between Groups 3 and 4. in terms of lung tissue damage (P < 0.001). Tissue damage was most pronounced in Group 4. The application of exosomes significantly reduced inflammation and oedema in Group 3.

Exosomes shorten bleeding time and reduce lung tissue damage when administered before puncture. Exosomes have the potential to replace protamine in the future.