Simultaneous targeting of CD14 and factor XIa by a fusion protein consisting of an anti-CD14 antibody and the modified second domain of bikunin improves survival in rabbit sepsis models.

Severe sepsis is a complex, multifactorial, and rapidly progressing disease characterized by excessive inflammation and coagulation following bacterial infection. To simultaneously suppress pro-inflammatory and pro-coagulant responses, we genetically engineered a novel fusion protein (MR1007) consisting of an anti-CD14 antibody and the modified second domain of bikunin, and evaluated the potential of MR1007 as an anti-sepsis agent. Suppressive effects of MR1007 on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory responses were assessed using peripheral blood mononuclear cells or endothelial cells.

A novel antiplatelet antibody therapy that induces cAMP-dependent endocytosis of the GPVI/Fc receptor gamma-chain complex.

Platelet adhesion to vascular subendothelium, mediated in part by interactions between collagen and glycoprotein VI (GPVI) complexed with Fc receptor gamma-chain, is crucial for thrombus formation. Antiplatelet therapy benefits patients with various thrombotic and ischemic diseases, but the safety and efficacy of existing treatments are limited. Recent data suggest GPVI as a promising target for a novel antiplatelet therapy, for example, GPVI-specific Abs that deplete GPVI from the surface of platelets.

Identification of novel adrenomedullin in mammals: a potent cardiovascular and renal regulator.

We have identified cDNA encoding a new member of the adrenomedullin (AM) family, AM2, for the first time in mammals (mouse, rat and human). The predicted precursor carried mature AM2 in the C-terminus, which had an intramolecular ring formed by an S-S bond and a possibly amidated C-terminus. Phylogenetic analyses clustered AM2 and AM into two distinct but closely related groups.