Novel Inhibitor of Hageman Factor

We will investigate the ability of a novel human endothelial cell derived protein to ameliorate advbiomaterials in contact with blood. This protein (HEDA) has recently been purified from human endothand has been found to inhibit activation of Hageman factor (factor XII) by glass. Factor XII activatactivation of coagulation, fibrinolysis, complement and kinin pathways. These pathways are importanthemostasis and controlling inflammatory reactions. The central hypothesis to be tested is that HEDAinflammatory responses that occur when blood contacts biomaterials. To test this hypothesis, clinicawill be exposed to human blood components and the quantitative effects of HEDA on activation of factplatelets and neutrophils, will be determined. This is a focused study, designed to assess the feasiXII dependent inflammatory responses to biomaterials with a naturally-occurring inhibitor of factorsuccessful conclusion of this proposal will provide information required to assess the commercial podetermine if further development In a Phase II project is warranted.