Developing a new way to produce heparin using engineered cells
Official title: Testing Novel Advancements to Recombinant Heparin Production
Funded at Tega Therapeutics, INC. · NIH-10822891 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to make heparin, a medicine that helps prevent blood clots, using specially designed cells, so that patients can have a safer and more reliable supply without relying on animals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tega Therapeutics, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $355,222 |
| NIH project number | 1R43HL172567-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10822891 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who require anticoagulation therapy, particularly those at risk for thrombosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require anticoagulation therapy or those with contraindications to heparin will not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a novel cell line that can produce recombinant heparin, a critical anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots. By engineering mastocytoma cells to generate heparin, the project aims to ensure a more reliable and consistent supply of this essential drug, reducing dependence on animal sources. The approach involves controlled production processes that mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions and contamination. Patients may benefit from a safer and more stable heparin supply.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with a more reliable and safer source of heparin, reducing the risk of shortages and contamination.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in developing recombinant biologicals, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Tega Therapeutics, INC.
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Glass, Charles Alexander — Tega Therapeutics, INC.
- Study coordinator: Glass, Charles Alexander
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Recombinant heparin made in cells to reduce HIT
A new, cell-made heparin variant is being tested to lower the risk of HIT while providing effective blood-thinning.
-
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.