Thrombin-Specific Fluorogenic Peptides Accurately Determine Thrombin Concentrations

Thrombin-specific novel fluorogenic peptides accurately determine thrombin concentrations by the thrombin generation test (TGT).

An accurate assessment of thrombin concentration in a blood sample can be used to estimate the blood's coagulation ability. The TGT is a tool for monitoring the generation and disappearance of thrombin, and thus its concentration over time.

A thrombin-specific fluorogenic substrate when added to a clotting plasma sample results in thrombin-mediated hydrolysis of the substrate, releasing the fluorophore. Use of a spectrophotometrically measurable fluorophore increases the sensitivity and thus accuracy of the TGT.

Monitoring the increase in the induced signal over time gives rise to a thrombin generation curve, providing various essential coagulation parameters. The use of fluorogenic peptides in combination with the TGT is expected to find broad application in the field of hemostasis and thrombosis.

In a collaborative project headed by Prof. Floris Rutjes at Radboud University (Nijmegen, The Nederlands) and Prof. Hemker at the Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM; The Nederlands), novel thrombin-specific fluorogenic peptides were developed for accurate assessments of thrombin concentrations using the TGT.

Over expression of thrombin can result in thrombosis, whereas under expression can lead to hemophilia. Therefore, accurate monitoring of thrombin activity is the key to determining the proper course of treatment for a given patient.

Related Links:
Radboud University
Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht