Understanding how a protein called TFPI-alpha helps control blood clotting
Official title: Characterization of an isoform specific anticoagulant function of TFPI-alpha
Funded at Versiti Blood Health, INC. · NIH-11103351 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project aims to understand how a natural protein in our blood, TFPI-alpha, helps prevent unwanted blood clots and contributes to healthy blood flow.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Versiti Blood Health, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2002 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $739,302 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL068835-18 |
| Project ID | NIH-11103351 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with bleeding disorders, a history of blood clots, or genetic conditions like Factor V Leiden, which affect blood clotting, might eventually benefit from this research.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without conditions related to blood clotting or bleeding disorders would likely not receive direct benefit from this specific research.
What this research studies
Our bodies have a complex system to stop bleeding, but sometimes it can lead to dangerous clots or, conversely, excessive bleeding. This research focuses on a key protein called TFPI-alpha, which acts as a natural anticoagulant, meaning it helps thin the blood. We are learning how TFPI-alpha interacts with another clotting factor, FVa, to specifically slow down the early stages of blood clot formation. Understanding this interaction is crucial because problems with TFPI-alpha or FVa can lead to serious conditions like bleeding disorders or an increased risk of blood clots. By studying these interactions, we hope to uncover new ways to manage these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments for bleeding disorders or conditions that increase the risk of dangerous blood clots.
How similar studies have gone: This research builds upon recently published findings and new preliminary data, suggesting a foundation of prior success in understanding these molecular interactions.
Where this research is happening
-
Versiti Blood Health, INC.
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mast, Alan E — Versiti Blood Health, INC.
- Study coordinator: Mast, Alan E
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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.