Innovation of diagnostics of thrombotic and hemostatic disorders

Innovation of diagnostic assays for hemostatic and thrombotic disorders is a major current focus within the department of Plasma Proteins. In the past year efforts have been made to improvement our understanding of the antiphospholipid syndrome, an acquired autoimmune disorder that can present with thrombosis or pregnancy morbidity. Patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) display a heterogeneous population of antibodies that are frequently directed towards beta2-glycoproteinI. In a collaborative effort with Ronald Derksen, Flip de Groot and Bas de Laat from the Utrecht Medical Center, we have now, for the first time, isolated a series of human monoclonal antibodies directed towards different domains of beta2-glycoproteinI. All monoclonal antibodies display functional activity and it is expected that these antibodies will help to increase our insight into the pathogenesis of APS. It also anticipated that these reagents will facilitate standardization of diagnostic tests for this complex disorder.

In parallel with current work, focusing on refinement of current assays related to blood coagulation efforts are being undertaken to identify novel biomarkers for cardiovascular disorders. To facilitate this approach Sanquin participates in CTMM project INCOAG in which several and industrial academic partners collaborate towards innovation in this field. Current focus is on microRNA as potential novel biomarkers for cardiovascular disease. This approach is being pursued in close collaboration with Joost Meijers from the Academic Medical Center. Within the framework of this project Sanquin works on novel biomarkers derived from platelets, circulating blood cells as well as endothelial cells.

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