Creating a new type of anticoagulant from carbohydrates

Development of anticoagulant sulfated glycans

NIH-funded research Glycan Therapeutics Corporation · NIH-10907995

This study is testing a new, safer blood thinner made from synthetic sugars that could replace animal-based options, aiming to help patients avoid risks linked to animal products.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionGlycan Therapeutics Corporation NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Raleigh, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10907995 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a synthetic carbohydrate-based anticoagulant called sulfated glycan 8-mer to replace animal-derived low-molecular weight heparin (LMWH). The project aims to produce this compound using a novel chemoenzymatic method, which allows for a more consistent and safer alternative to current anticoagulants. The research will involve scaling up the production of the 8-mer and conducting pharmacodynamic analyses in advanced animal models to evaluate its effectiveness compared to existing treatments. Patients can benefit from a safer anticoagulant that reduces the risk of contamination and adverse reactions associated with animal-sourced products.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients requiring anticoagulation therapy, particularly those who may be at risk for complications from traditional heparin treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not require anticoagulation therapy or those with contraindications to anticoagulants may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with a safer and more effective anticoagulant option that minimizes the risk of contamination and adverse effects.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of developing synthetic anticoagulants is being explored, this specific method using sulfated glycan 8-mer is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.

Where this research is happening

Raleigh, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.