UIC-2013-099 – Treatment of Thrombosis by Inhibiting Von Willebrand Factor

Leading UIC researcher, Richard Minshall, has developed and validated a novel 6-mer peptide targeting regulation of vWF secretion. The peptide blocks guanine nucleotide exchange alpha-subunit protein 12 (Gα12) from binding to alpha soluble NSF attachment protein (α-SNAP). This inhibition results in a reduction in the secretion of vWF. Therapeutic peptides offer highly targeted treatment strategies. In vivo validation has shown the novel peptide is capable of reducing vWF secretion from endothelial cells while maintaining a light-touch. The peptide acts specifically on the activity of Gα12 with minimal downstream cellular side-effects. In sum, this peptide represents an innovative, novel anti-thrombotic drug candidate. The CDC estimates that 900,000 Americans suffer from Venous Thromboembolism alone. Recurrence and chronic disability is not uncommon. There is a pressing need for therapeutics that treat disease pathology rather than symptoms. Veronica Haywood vhaywo2@uic.otm.edu 312-996-4865