Investigating safer alternatives to heparin for blood clot prevention
Official title: Genome-wide Analysis of Anticoagulant Heparin Sulfate for Bioengineering Heparan
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-10900629 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on creating a new, safer version of heparin, a blood thinner used to prevent serious complications, so that patients who need it can avoid some of the side effects linked to the usual heparin made from animals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $188,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HL167091-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900629 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who require anticoagulation therapy for conditions such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require anticoagulation therapy or have contraindications to anticoagulants may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a recombinant source of heparin, a widely used anticoagulant, to reduce the risk of serious complications such as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). By understanding the regulatory mechanisms behind heparin's biosynthesis and its interaction with blood components, the study aims to create a safer and more effective anticoagulant. Patients currently treated with heparin may benefit from this innovative approach, which seeks to eliminate the adverse effects associated with traditional heparin derived from animal sources.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with a safer alternative to heparin, reducing the risk of life-threatening complications.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of developing recombinant heparin is innovative, similar research has shown promise in creating safer anticoagulants, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weiss, Ryan Joseph — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Weiss, Ryan Joseph
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.