Global InformationHeparin mimicking polymers information
Heparin mimicking polymers are synthetic compounds that possess similar characteristics to heparin, that is it can be used clinically as an anticoagulant. These compounds like heparin possess a negative charge density that allows it to interact and inhibit the coagulation process. Glucose or mannose-contain n-alkyl urea peptoid oligomer, glucose modified diamine with pedant monosaccharides are examples of heparin mimicking polymers.[1] Heparin mimicking polymers can also be used to create biomaterials for surgical application such as pacemakers, stents, etc.
Heparin is widely used as a clinical anticoagulant however, it possesses drawbacks creating a need for synthetic heparin mimicking polymers. Events such as the 2008 heparin contamination event, and mad cow disease further enhance the new demand for more robust anticoagulants. Additionally prolonged use of heparin results in heparin induced thrombocytopenia.[1]
Three aspects of synthetic mimicking polymers are currently focused on: mimicking anionic sulfate domains of heparin, polymerization of sulfated saccharides and sulfation of natural occurring GAGs.[1]
- ^ a b c Huang, Y., Taylor, L., Chen, X. and Ayres, N. (2013), Synthesis of a polyurea from a glucose- or mannose-containing N-alkyl urea peptoid oligomer. Journal of Polymer Science Part A: Polymer Chemistry, 51: 5230–5238. doi: 10.1002/pola.26953