Classifications

• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61K—PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
  • A61K31/00—Medicinal preparations containing organic active ingredients
  • A61K31/70—Carbohydrates; Sugars; Derivatives thereof
  • A61K31/715—Polysaccharides, i.e. having more than five saccharide radicals attached to each other by glycosidic linkages; Derivatives thereof, e.g. ethers, esters
  • A61K31/726—Glycosaminoglycans, i.e. mucopolysaccharides
  • A61K31/727—Heparin; Heparan
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61P—SPECIFIC THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITY OF CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS OR MEDICINAL PREPARATIONS
  • A61P31/00—Antiinfectives, i.e. antibiotics, antiseptics, chemotherapeutics
  • A61P31/12—Antivirals
  • A61P31/14—Antivirals for RNA viruses
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61P—SPECIFIC THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITY OF CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS OR MEDICINAL PREPARATIONS
  • A61P35/00—Antineoplastic agents
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61P—SPECIFIC THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITY OF CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS OR MEDICINAL PREPARATIONS
  • A61P7/00—Drugs for disorders of the blood or the extracellular fluid
  • A61P7/02—Antithrombotic agents; Anticoagulants; Platelet aggregation inhibitors

Definitions

• the present invention relates to the treatment of endotheliopathy. Particularly, medium molecular weight heparins for use in the treatment of endotheliopathy.
• the vertebrate vasculature system consists of arteries, veins and capillaries. Blood flow through the vasculature is dynamic allowing for the maintenance of homeostasis through the delivery of essential elements such as oxygen and leukocytes to the tissues most in need. Blood flow is controlled through the dilation and constriction of the blood vessels.
• the endothelial cells which line the inside of the lumen of the vasculature act as a monolayer to form the endothelium; the endothelium sits upon a layer of smooth muscle cells. These smooth muscle cells either constrict or relax which results in constriction of the blood vessels (vasoconstriction) or dilation of the blood vessels (vasodilation), respectively.
• Endothelial cells lining the blood vessel are more than simple constituents of the vessel wall. Endothelial cells produce and release vasoactive substances that relax and constrict blood vessels. For example, endothelial cells produce nitric oxide (NO) in response to sheer stress or stimuli, such as acetylcholine, histamine and thrombin. The NO then diffuses to the smooth muscle cells surrounding the endothelium to initiate vasodilation. Reactive oxygen species, which are released in response to inflammatory stimuli, can increase endothelial permeability and promote leukocyte adhesion to the endothelial cells via the expression of adhesion molecules. This serves to drive the influx of leukocytes to sites of inflammation. Moreover, the endothelium provides a surface for thrombus formation. Thus, it is the endothelial cells that play a crucial role in the regulation of homeostasis.
• NO nitric oxide
• stimuli such as acetylcholine, his
• Endothelial dysfunction or endotheliopathy
• Endotheliopathy can therefore have dire consequences as blood flow, oxygen delivery, the immune response and, therefore, homeostasis are impaired.
• Endotheliopathy is characterised by decreased NO bioavailability. This can result in the increased expression of adhesion molecules on the endothelial surface, thereby initiating leukocyte recruitment to the vascular wall.
• inflammation of the endothelium, or endothel ialitis is observed in endotheliopathy.
• This can result in a defective lining of the blood vessels by the endothelium, resulting in the exposure of the subendothelial matrix to clotting factors in the blood. Consequently, platelet aggregation and thrombus formation occur, resulting in a potentially lethal blood clot.
• Endotheliopathy may be caused by a number of diseases and is typically viewed as a symptom rather than a cause of disease. Consequently, treatments have focussed on targeting the causative disease rather than the endotheliopathy itself. As a result of this, treatments for endotheliopathy are lacking. However, it is now suggested that an underlying endotheliopathy may actually drive disease severity and morbidity and endotheliopathy plays a much larger role than previously thought. Therefore, treating the endotheliopathy and not just the causative disease may increase patient survival.
• endotheliopathy and endothelialitis are used interchangeably. While endotheliopathy may be caused by a large number of diseases and/or conditions as described herein, endotheliopathy with reference to COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2 will primarily be discussed herein. The skilled person will understand that this discussion is merely to provide an example and should not be considered limiting on the present invention.
• haemostatic mechanisms have provided insight into an improved understanding of ARDS based on a molecular pathogenesis associated with endotheliopathy that promotes inflammation and coagulation disorder in sepsis and other critical illnesses (11-14) : one is the "two-activation theory of the endothelium" in which an endothelial pathogenesis activates the inflammatory pathway and microthrombotic pathway, whilst the other is a novel "two-path unifying theory" of haemostasis in which haemostasis initiates thrombogenesis and promotes micro- thrombogenesis, leading to vascular microthrombotic disease (VMTD) (11,13,15).
• VMTD vascular microthrombotic disease
• ARDS is often associated with sepsis from a variety of different causes and has been seen in severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) due to SARS-CoV (16), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) due to MERS-CoV (17) and now COVID-19.
• SARS severe acute respiratory syndrome
• MERS Middle East respiratory syndrome
• Sepsis-associated ARDS often develops with other organ dysfunction such as encephalopathy (18), hepatic failure (19)(20), acute renal failure, and acute necrotizing pancreatitis (21). This multi-organ involvement suggests ARDS may not be the primary disease but is part of an on-going systemic pathogenic mechanism triggered by an infection or another critical illness.
• EA-VMTD endotheliopathy associated VMTD
• DIMT disseminated microthrombosis
• VWF Von Willebrand Factor
• VWF The vast majority of VWF found in the plasma is derived from the VWF synthesised within the ECs, where it is stored within the Weibel Palade Bodies (WPB). Although restricted to ECs there are differences in the synthesis of VWF within the different vascular beds of the body, with the small vessels of the lung and brain expressing higher levels of VWF than similar sized vessels of the liver or kidney and higher levels in venous rather than arterial ECs (37). A major portion of the VWF stored in the WPBs of endothelial cells is made up of ultra-large VWF (ULVWF). These ultra-large VWF multimers are more adhesive than the smaller VWF multimers in the circulation (38).
• UUVWF ultra-large VWF
• ULVWF Upon secretion, ULVWF can spontaneously bind platelets. Inflammatory cytokines such as lnterleukin-1 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha can trigger the exocytosis of WPBs with release of their contents. Thus, plasma level of VWF can be used as a marker of endothelial activation and vascular inflammation and raised levels of VWF have been shown to associate with ARDS and sepsis, and to correlate independently to mortality (39,40).
• Inflammatory cytokines such as lnterleukin-1 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha
• TNF tumour necrosis factor
• the secreted VWF which partly enters the circulation and partly binds to the endothelium, is sensitive to shear stress. This shear stress unfolds the VWF and exposes sites for platelet binding, self-association as well as for cleavage via the enzyme ADAMTS13. It has previously been shown these VWF molecules can self-associate into long 'strings' in the direction of flow, both arterial and venous, that bind to platelets and are adherent to the endothelium (41-43). A protease, ADAMTS13, cleaves VWF and ULVWF, perfusion of which over these platelet -VWF strings led to them being rapidly removed from the circulation (41).
• the ULVWF multimers released from the WPBs have a lower shear stress for unfolding and therefore may represent the initiating molecules for this self-assembly process which leads to hyper-adhesive strings capturing platelets.
• the binding of platelets to the VWF occurs via the GP lb receptor.
• the binding site for this receptor is usually not exposed when the VWF is in its globular form and therefore cannot bind to platelets. Once VWF unfurls, secondary to shear stress, the binding site is exposed and binds with high affinity to platelets.
• the binding of platelets to VWF may cause a conformational change leading to activation of the integrin GPIIbllla (also known as a2b 3) and promoting platelet-platelet as well as platelet-VWF cross binding.
• GPIIbllla also known as a2b 3
• platelet-platelet as well as platelet-VWF cross binding.
• standard anti-platelet agents is likely to be ineffective (Aspirin or P2Y12 inhibitors) or only partially effective in mitigating this pathological process as was suggested by the cohort study of Tremblay et al (44).
• VWF:Ag von Willebrand Factor antigen
• Fleparin is a naturally occurring, highly sulphated polysaccharide characterised by a wide molecular weight range of polysaccharide chains. Fleparin acts at a variety of different ligands with varied actions. Heparin is a member of the glycosaminoglycan carbohydrate family and consists of repeating disaccharide units of GlcA 1-4GlcNAcal-4 with poly-disperse sulfation, N-acetylation and uronosyl epimerization. Heparin is highly heterogenous. Heparin isolated from natural sources contains polysaccharide chains with molecular weights ranging from about 3000 Da to about 30,000 Da.
• UFH unfractionated heparin
• UFH can be enzymatically or chemically treated to deliver shorter polysaccharide chains.
• the products of the chemically or enzymatically treated UFH can be affinity purified to yield fractionated heparin where the molecular weight of the polysaccharides in each fraction can be readily determined.
• Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) contains polysaccharide chains in the range of about 4000 Da to about 8000 Da.
• medium molecular weight heparins may have specificity towards inhibiting VWF-GPIb binding, hence stopping microthrombosis, but as they have little effect on anti-thrombin III they have little anti-coagulant effect.
• medium molecular weight heparins with a mass of about 11000 Da (g/mol) represent an ideal treatment option when considering the treatment of patients with pro- thrombotic states that are dependent upon increased VWF levels and endotheliopathies.
• low molecular weight heparins are unlikely to work and do not target the GPIb receptor and that UFH, whilst it may contain the sugar moieties that can bind to VWF, is sub-optimal.
• monitoring of UFH is difficult and the other fractions of UFH, e.g. the LMWH fractions, have anticoagulant effects which can result in dangerous bleeding events, which are unpredictable.
• endotheliopathy may be associated with a number of diseases.
• the Inventor has found that medium molecular weight heparin can be used to treat endotheliopathy, particularly endotheliopathy in a patient having a high plasma von Willebrand factor level.
• the invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in treating endotheliopathy.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may inhibit von Willebrand factor (VWF).
• VWF von Willebrand factor
• the medium molecular weight heparin may inhibit multimers of VWF, preferably ultra-large VWF.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may inhibit the binding of platelets to VWF.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of endotheliopathy in a patient.
• the patient has a plasma von Willebrand factor to ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the patient may have a von Willebrand factor antigen to ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may inhibit von Willebrand factor (VWF).
• VWF von Willebrand factor
• the medium molecular weight heparin may inhibit multimers of VWF, preferably ultra-large VWF.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may inhibit the binding of platelets to VWF.
• the patient may have a VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2, of at least about 4, of at least about 8, or of at least about 10.
• the patient may have a VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio greater than about 2, greater than about 4, or greater than about 8, or greater than about 10.
• the patient may have a VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of about 2-16, about 4-12, or preferably about 6-10.
• a patient having a VWF to ADAMTS13 ratio of greater than about 8 typically indicates severe illness and often is indicative of a patient deteriorating towards death.
• the patient may have a VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2, of at least about 4, of at least about 8, or of at least about 10.
• the patient may have a VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio greater than about 2, greater than about 4, or greater than about 8, or greater than about 10.
• the patient may have a VWF antigen :ADAMTS13 ratio of about 2-16, about 4-12, or preferably about 6- 10.
• a patient having a VWF antigen to ADAMTS13 ratio of greater than about 8 typically indicates severe illness and often is indicative of a patient deteriorating towards death.
• the level of VWF and ADAMTS13 in the patient may be measured using an ELISA.
• the ratio may be calculated as described by Fluisman et al (51). Briefly, the level of the VWF antigen may be determined in international units and the level of ADAMTS13 may be determined in international units and then the ratio of VWF antigen: ADAMTS13 determined.
• Normal levels of plasma VWF are in the range of from about 50 IU per dL to about 200 IU per dL.
• the mean level of plasma VWF in the general population is about 100 IU per dL.
• High levels of plasma VWF are those of about 200 IU per dL or more, for example from about 200 IU per dL to about 400 IU per dL, from about 225 IU per dL to about 375 IU per dL, from about 250 IU per dLto about 350 IU per dL, from about 275 IU per dL to about 300 IU per dL.
• the patient may have a raised VWF antigen level of about 150% or more, of about 175% or more, of about 200% or more, of about 300% or more, of about 350% or more, or about 400% or more, or of about 500% or more.
• the patient may have a VWF antigen level of up to about 600%, up to about 700%, up to about 800%, or up to about 1000%.
• levels of plasma VWF may be temporarily raised by infections, inflammation, trauma, and with physical and emotional stressors.
• the patient may have a non- temporarily raised plasma von Willebrand factor level, for example for at least about six hours, at least about 12 hours, at least about 18 hours or at least about 24 hours.
• the patient may have a raised plasma von Willebrand factor level for at least about one day, at least about two days, at least about three days, at least about four days, at least about five days, at least about six days, or at least about seven days.
• the patient may have a raised plasma von Willebrand factor level for at least about one week, at least about two weeks, at least about three weeks or at least about four weeks.
• the patient may have a raised plasma von Willebrand factor level for at least about one month, at least about two months, at least about three months, at least about four months, at least about five months, at least about six months or at least about one year.
• the patient may have a raised plasma von Willebrand factor level for up to about one week, up to about four weeks, up to about two months, up to about four months, up to about six months, or up to about one year.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may have a mass of about 11 000 Da (g/mol).
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise at least three units of the GlcNS6S-ldoA2S (or ldoA2S-GlcNS6S) disaccharide.
• the endotheliopathy may be caused by COVID-19, viral infection, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), cancer, bacterial infection, septicaemia, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, trauma, in particular brain or head trauma, burns, inhalational injury, drugs and drug reactions, haematological conditions, subarachnoid haemorrhage, aneurysmal diseases, stroke, or brain parenchymal haemorrhage.
• ARDS acute respiratory distress syndrome
• cancer bacterial infection
• septicaemia cardiovascular disease
• diabetes mellitus trauma, in particular brain or head trauma, burns, inhalational injury, drugs and drug reactions, haematological conditions, subarachnoid haemorrhage, aneurysmal diseases, stroke, or brain parenchymal haemorrhage.
• the endotheliopathy may be caused by a viral infection, optionally wherein the viral infection is SARS-CoV-2.
• the endotheliopathy may be caused by cancer, in particular leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, or a solid organ cancer, such as colon cancer, breast cancer, brain cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, testicular cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, liver cancer, or skin cancer.
• cancer in particular leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, or a solid organ cancer, such as colon cancer, breast cancer, brain cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, testicular cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, liver cancer, or skin cancer.
• the treatment of endotheliopathy by medium molecular weight heparin may inhibit the haematogenous spread of cancer.
• Fluman tumour cells can bind to VWF under shear flow conditions with both melanoma and colon cancer cells demonstrating this ability.
• the immobilized platelets, bound to the VWF have been shown to mediate tethering, rolling, and the firm adhesion of different cancerous cell lines under flow shear stress.
• the VWF played a critical role in enabling this firm adhesion of the tumour cells to the immobilized platelets.
• the existing data suggests that VWF plays an important role in tethering cancerous cells.
• the VWF-Platelet binding that occurs as part of the normal thrombosis pathways may further act to allow the coalescence of tumour cells into the VWF-Platelet to form heteroaggregates of VWF+platelets+cancer cells which thereby help in the blood borne (haematogenous) spread of tumour cells.
• This process may at least in part be caused by the ability of cancer cells to translocate to the vessel wall and thereby spread to other organs once the initial binding to VWF and Platelets has occurred.
• various cancers are known to cause an endotheliopathy with the resultant release of UL-VWF.
• the tumour triggers the release of UL-VWF that then allows the tethering of platelets and tumour cells and the haematogenous spread of the cancer and the metastatic spread.
• This cancer induced endotheliopathy also results in an overall increase in the risk of thrombosis in patients with underlying malignancy. Therefore, any treatment aimed at treating an endotheliopathy and inhibiting the binding of platelets and/or tumour cells to VWF would serve a dual purpose of decreasing the risk of malignancy associated thrombosis and also reduce the risk haematogenous metastatic spread.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered by an administration method selected from the group consisting of: parenteral, subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular, intrathecal, intradermal, intraarterial, intraarticular, cutaneous, transcutaneous, subcutaneous, depot form, for example depot injection, intra-osseus, or inhalation.
• the medium molecular weight heparin administration method is subcutaneous, intravenous or intramuscular.
• the administration method may be inhalation, optionally via a nebuliser.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of from about 0.01 mg/kg, from about 0.1 mg/kg, from about 1 mg/kg, from about 5 mg/kg, from about 10 mg/kg, from about 20 mg/kg, from about 30 mg/kg, from about 50 mg/kg, from about 70 mg/kg, from about 80 mg/kg, or from about 100 mg/kg.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of about 500 mg/kg or less, about 300 mg/kg or less, about 200 mg/kg or less, or about 100 mg/kg or less.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of from about 0.01 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, preferably from about 0.2 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, from about 0.2 mg/kg to about 1.6 mg/kg.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered as a single dose or as a continuous dose.
• the medium molecular weight heparin dosage amount may be dependent on the VWF antigen: ADAMTS13 ratio or the overall VWF levels. The skilled person would be able select a suitable amount for a patient based on the VWF antigen: ADAMTS13 ratio or the overall VWF levels.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be comprised in a pharmaceutical formulation.
• the pharmaceutical formulation may comprise an excipient.
• the excipient may be selected from the group comprising solvents, co-solvents, buffers, stabilisers, antioxidants, preservatives, chelating agents, emulsifiers, flavourings, lubricants, suspending agents, tonicity adjusting agents, surfactants, solubilising agents, suspending aids, dispersion agents, humectants, thickeners, colouring agent, wetting agent, anti-foaming agent, viscosity modifier, sweeteners and combinations thereof.
• the pharmaceutical formulation may comprise an additional active agent.
• the additional active agent may comprise low molecular weight heparin.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise a chemical modification.
• the chemical modification may be selected from the group comprising N-acetylation, N-deacetylation, N-sulfation, O-sulfation, 2-0 desulfation, and complete desulfation.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of a disease or condition in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma von Willebrand factor to ADAMTS13 (VWF:ADAMTS13) ratio of at least about 2.
• VWF:ADAMTS13 plasma von Willebrand factor to ADAMTS13
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of COVID-19 in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of viral infection in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the viral infection may be SARS-CoV-2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• ARDS acute respiratory distress syndrome
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of cancer in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the cancer may be leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, or a solid organ cancer, such as colon cancer, breast cancer, brain cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, testicular cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, liver cancer, or skin cancer.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of bacterial infection in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of septicaemia in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of cardiovascular disease in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of trauma in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of burns in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of inhalational injury in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of drug reactions in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of haematological conditions in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of subarachnoid haemorrhage in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of aneurysmal diseases in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of a disease or condition in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma von Willebrand factor antigen to ADAMTS13 (VWF antigen:ADAMTS13) ratio of at least about 2.
• VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 a plasma von Willebrand factor antigen to ADAMTS13
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of COVID-19 in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen :ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of viral infection in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the viral infection may be SARS- CoV-2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• ARDS acute respiratory distress syndrome
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of cancer in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the cancer may be leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, or a solid organ cancer, such as colon cancer, breast cancer, brain cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, testicular cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, liver cancer, or skin cancer.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of bacterial infection in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of septicaemia in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen :ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of cardiovascular disease in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen :ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of trauma in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of burns in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of inhalational injury in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen :ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of drug reactions in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen :ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of haematological conditions in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of subarachnoid haemorrhage in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the present invention provides medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of aneurysmal diseases in a patient, wherein the patient has an endotheliopathy characterised by a plasma VWF antigen :ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• heparins for use in the treatment of endotheliopathy as defined in the first aspect of the invention are particularly advantageous as said heparins can inhibit the microthrombosis triggered by the release of VWF secondary to the endotheliopathy caused by any disease or condition.
• said heparins can additionally inhibit viral adherence and replication.
• the invention provides a kit comprising medium molecular weight heparin for use in the treatment of endotheliopathy, in particular according to the first or second or third aspects of the invention.
• the invention provides a method of treating endotheliopathy, the method comprising administering to a subject in need of treatment a therapeutically effective amount of medium molecular weight heparin, wherein the patient has plasma VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio of at least about 2.
• the invention provides the use of the medium molecular weight heparin as defined in the first or second or third aspect for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of endotheliopathy.
• FIGS. 5A and 5B Effect of MMWH and LMWH on VWF-dependent platelet agglutination.
• Figure 6 LTA trace of inhibition of VWF-induced platelet agglutination with 5 pM, 10 pM and 20 pM MMWH.
• Figure 7 LTA trace of inhibition of VWF-induced platelet agglutination with 5 pM and 10 pM MMWH.
• Figure 8 LTA trace of inhibition of VWF-induced platelet agglutination with 10 pM MMWH and anti- VWF mAb.
• Figure 9 LTA trace of inhibition of VWF-induced platelet agglutination with 5 pM and 20 pM MMWH and anti-VWF mAb.
• Figure 10 LTA trace of inhibition of VWF-induced platelet agglutination with 10 pM LMWH and anti- VWF mAb.
• Figure 11 LTA trace of inhibition of VWF-induced platelet agglutination with 20 pM LMWH.
• Figure 12 Statistical analysis of MMWH, LMWH and mAb inhibition of VWF-induced platelet agglutination (area under curve and slope)
• Figure 13 LTA trace of inhibition of VWF-induced platelet agglutination with 5 mM, 10 mM and 20 mM MMWH with non-ristocetin agonists: A. ADP as agonist; B. Collagen as agonist; C. TRAP6 as agonist.
• FIG. 14 Graphs of MMWH (0 mM, 5 mM, 10 mM and 20 mM) inhibition of VWF-induced platelet aggregation in the presence of agonists: A. ADP; B. Collagen; C. TRAP-6.
• treatment and “therapy” define the therapeutic treatment of a patient, in order to reduce or halt the rate of progression of a disorder or condition, or to ameliorate or cure the disorder or condition. Prophylaxis of a disorder or condition as a result of treatment or therapy is also included.
• the term "patient” preferably refers to a mammal. Typically, the mammal is a human.
• VWF von Willebrand factor
• a disaccharide is a sugar whose molecules contain two monosaccharide residues.
• a low molecular weight heparin is defined herein as a heparin with an average molecular weight of from about 4000 Da (g/mol) to about 8000 Da (g/mol).
• a medium molecular weight heparin is defined herein as a heparin with an average molecular weight of from greater than about 8000 Da (g/mol) to about 13000 Da (g/mol).
• the endotheliopathy may be caused by any disease.
• the endotheliopathy may be caused by COVID-19, viral infection, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), cancer, bacterial infection, septicaemia, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, trauma, in particular head trauma, burns, inhalational injury, drugs and drug reactions, haematological conditions, subarachnoid haemorrhage, aneurysmal diseases, stroke or brain parenchymal haemorrhage.
• ARDS acute respiratory distress syndrome
• the infection may be bacterial, fungal, or parasitic.
• the infection may be bacterial.
• the bacterial infection may be Actinomyces israelii, Bacillus anthracis, Bacteroides fragilis, Bordetella pertussis, Borrelia burgdoferi, Borrelia garinii, Borrelia afzelaii, Borrelia recurrentis, Brucella abortus, Brucella canis, Brucella melitensis, Brucella suis, Campylobacter jejuni, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Chlamydophilia psittaci, Clostridium botulinum, Clostridium difficile, Clostridium perfringens, Clostridium tetani, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium, Escherichia coli, Francis
• the infection may be fungal.
• the fungal infection may be Aspergillus, Blastomyces, Candida, Coccidioides, Cryptococcus neoformans, Cryptococcus gattii, Histoplasma, mucormycetes, Tinea cruris, Tinea corporis, or Tinea pedis.
• the infection may be parasitic.
• the parasitic infection may be protozoan eye infection, Chagas' disease, leishmaniasis, toxoplasmosis, giardiasis, malaria, microsporidiosis, or Rhinosporidiosis.
• the parasitic infection is malaria.
• the viral infection may be SARS-CoV-2.
• SARS-CoV-2 is the virus responsible for the disease COVID-19. COVID-19 can result in ARDS.
• the endotheliopathy may be caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• the endotheliopathy may be caused by COVID-19.
• the endotheliopathy may be caused by ARDS.
• the endotheliopathy may be caused by cancer.
• the cancer may be leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma.
• the cancer may be solid organ cancer, for example colon cancer, breast cancer, brain cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, testicular cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, liver cancer, or skin cancer.
• the endotheliopathy may be cause by haematological conditions, for example Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, anaemia, or sickle cell disease.
• Dysfunctional endothelial cells may allow for the passage of tumour cells circulating in the blood to pass into the tissues.
• treating the endotheliopathy may prevent the haematogenous spread of blood borne cancers.
• the treatment of the endotheliopathy may inhibit the haematogenous spread of cancer.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may inhibit the haematogenous spread of cancer.
• Biomarkers of endotheliopathy may include raised von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels, ultra- large von Willebrand factor (ULVWF) levels, Factor VIII levels as well as other markers such as Syndecan 1, VWF antigen, VWF activity, VWF multimers, ADAMTS13 levels, platelet counts, VCAM-1, ICAM-1, P-selectin levels, VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio or VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio.
• VWF von Willebrand factor
• UUVWF ultra- large von Willebrand factor
• Factor VIII levels as well as other markers such as Syndecan 1, VWF antigen, VWF activity, VWF multimers, ADAMTS13 levels, platelet counts, VCAM-1, ICAM-1, P-selectin levels, VWF:ADAMTS13 ratio or VWF antigen:ADAMTS13 ratio.
• a biomarker of endotheliopathy is the ratio of VWF:ADAMTS13 or VWF antigen: ADAMTS13.
• the patient may have raised plasma von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels compared to a healthy control subject.
• the patient may have sustained high levels of plasma VWF compared to a healthy control.
• the levels of plasma VWF may be raised compared to a healthy control subject over a period of at least about one day, at least about two days, at least about three days, at least about four days, at least about five days, at least about six days, or preferably at least about one week.
• the levels of plasma VWF may be raised compared to a healthy control subject for a period of up to about one week, up to about four weeks, up to about two months, up to about four months, up to about six months, or up to about one year.
• the level of plasma VWF may be raised to at least about 50 nmol/L, preferably at least about 60 nmol/L, even more preferably at least about 70 nmol/L or yet even more preferably at least about 90 nmol/L.
• the level of plasma VWF may be raised to about 130 nmol/L, to about 150 nmol/L, or to about 200 nmol/L.
• the level of plasma VWF may be raised to at least about 50 nmol/L for at least about one day, at least about two days, at least about three days, at least about four days, at least about five days, at least about six days, at least about one week, at least about one month or at least about one year.
• the level of plasma VWF may be raised to at least about 60 nmol/L for at least about one day, at least about two days, at least about three, days, at least about four days, at least about five days, at least about six days, at least about one week, at least about one month or at least about one year.
• the level of plasma VWF may be raised to at least about 70 nmol/L for at least about one day, at least about two days, at least about three days, at least about four days, at least about five days, at least about six days, at least about one week, at least about one month or at least about one year.
• the level of plasma VWF may be raised to at least about 90 nmol/L for at least about one day, at least about two days, at least about three days, at least about four days, at least about five days, at least about six days, at least about one week, at least about one month or at least about one year.
• the plasma VWF level may be measured using an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).
• the patient may have a plasma von Willebrand factor level of about 200 IU pr dL or more for at least about six hours, at least about 12 hours, at least about 18 hours or at least about 24 hours.
• the patient may have a plasma von Willebrand factor level of about 200 IU pr dL or more for at least about one day, at least about two days, at least about three days, at least about four days, at least about five days, at least about six days, or at least about seven days.
• the patient may have a plasma von Willebrand factor level of about 200 IU pr dL or more for at least about one week, at least about two weeks, at least about three weeks or at least about four weeks.
• the patient may have a plasma von Willebrand factor level of about 200 IU pr dL or more for at least about one month, at least about two months, at least about three months, at least about four months, at least about five months, at least about six months or at least about one year.
• Vascular endothelial function can be assessed in the coronary and peripheral circulations. Non-invasive tests for the assessment of coronary endothelial function include Doppler echocardiography where blood flow is measured in response to pharmacological or physiological stimuli. Other tests include positron emission tomography and phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging.
• the gold standard test involves invasive quantitative coronary angiography to examine changes in diameter in response to intracoronary infusions of endothelium-dependent vasodilators such as acetylcholine.
• Assessment of the endothelium in the peripheral circulation includes brachial artery ultrasound and strain-gauge venous impedance plethysmography.
• Binding of medium molecular weight heparin to VWF may be assessed by a competitive binding assay.
• Heparin-Sepharose beads may be incubated with labelled VWF, for example 125 l-vWF, for a period of time to allow the labelled VWF to bind to the immobilized heparin. Varying concentrations of the medium molecular weight heparin may then be added and the amount of displaced labelled VWF determined.
• Other methods to determine medium molecular weight heparin binding to VWF may include surface plasmon resonance, biolayer interferometry, isothermal titration calorimetry, fluorescence polarisation binding assays, ELISA and microscale thermophoresis.
• the inhibition of platelets binding to VWF may be assessed by ristocetin-induced agglutination of fixed platelets. Platelets may be incubated with the medium molecular weight heparin and citrate treated plasma (a VWF source). Ristocetin may then be added, and platelet agglutination then determined. The MMWH may fully inhibit VWF-induced platelet aggregation at a concentration of 15 mM when measured by a ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation assay. Other methods to determine the inhibition of VWF binding to platelets may include ELISA, fluorescence assisted cell sorting, dynamic light scattering, or flow chamber assays.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may have a mass in the range of greater than about 8000 Da (g/mol) to about 13 000 Da (g/mol), preferably about 10000 Da (g/mol) to about 12000 Da (g/mol).
• the medium molecular weight heparin may have a mass of about 11 000 Da (g/mol).
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise polysaccharide chains with an average molecular mass in the range of about 9000 Da (g/mol) to about 13000 Da (g/mol), preferably about 10000 Da (g/mol) to about 12 000 Da (g/mol).
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise polysaccharide chains with an average molecular mass of about 11 000 Da (g/mol).
• the molecular weight of the medium molecular weight heparin may be determined by mass spectrometry or size exclusion chromatography, for example.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be chemically synthesised.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be enzymatically synthesised.
• High pressure liquid chromatography may be used to purify the medium molecular weight heparin.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise at least three units of a GlcNS6S-ldoA2S disaccharide, for example at least four units, at least five units, at least six units, at least eight units, or at least ten units.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise less than or equal to 25 units of the GlcNS6S-ldoA2S disaccharide, for example less than or equal to 20 units.
• the presence of the units of the GlcNS6S-ldoA2S disaccharide may be determined by an antibody, mass spectrometry, or inferred from chemical and enzymatical studies.
• the GlcNS6S-ldoA2S units may be ordered in succession.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise at least three units of a ldoA2S-GlcNS6S disaccharide, for example at least four units, at least five units, at least six units, at least eight units, or at least ten units.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise less than or equal to 25 units of the ldoA2S-GlcNS6S disaccharide, for example less than or equal to 20 units.
• the presence of the units of the ldoA2S-GlcNS6S disaccharide may be determined by an antibody, mass spectrometry, or inferred from chemical and enzymatical studies.
• the ldoA2S-GlcNS6S units may be ordered in succession. The number of ldoA2S-GlcNS6S units may be tailored to provide a desired anti-VWF activity and/or standard anticoagulant activity.
• the medium molecularweight heparin may comprise UA2S-GlcNS6S, UA2S-GlcNS, UA-GIcNAc.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise at least about 60% UA2S-GlcNS6S, UA2S-GlcNS, and UA-GIcNAc.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise at least about 45%, preferably at least about 48%, preferably at least about 49%, preferably at least about 60%UA2S-GlcNS6S.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise up to about 60%, preferably up to about 70%, preferably up to about 85% UA2S-GlcNS6S.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise at least about 4%, preferably at least about 5%, preferably at least about 6%, preferably at least about 10% UA2S-GlcNS.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise up to about 15%, preferably up to about 20% UA2S-GlcNS.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise at least 4%, preferably at least 5%, preferably at least 6%, preferably at least about 10% UA-GIcNAc.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise up to about 15%, preferably up to about 20% UA-GIcNAc.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise at least 49.2% UA2S- GlcNS6S, 5.4% UA2S-GlcN and 5.4% UA-GIcNAc. In some embodiments the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise at least 82% UA2S-GlcNS6S, 9% UA2S-GlcNS and 9% UA-GIcNAc. The percentage composition of UA -GlcNAc comprising the medium molecular weight heparin may be enriched compared to unfractionated heparin.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered by an administration method selected from parenteral, subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular, intrathecal, intradermal, intraarterial, or intraarticular, cutaneous, transcutaneous, subcutaneous, depot form, for example depot injection, intra-osseus, or inhalation.
• Preferred methods of administration comprise subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular or inhalation.
• UFH a nebulised agent in a variety of conditions.
• Small human studies indicate that nebulised UFH limits pulmonary fibrin deposition, attenuates progression of acute lung injury and hastens recovery (69).
• Early-phase trials in patients with acute lung injury and related conditions found that nebulised UFH reduced pulmonary dead space, coagulation activation, microvascular thrombosis, improved lung injury and increased time free of ventilatory support (70- 73).
• nebulised UFH limited progression of lung injury including acute respiratory distress syndrome and accelerated return to home in survivors.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered by inhalation via a nebuliser.
• Fleparin dosage is typically measured in "Flowell Units".
• One unit of heparin (the "Flowell unit") is an amount approximately equivalent to 0.002 mg of pure heparin, which is the quantity required to keep 1 ml of cat's blood fluid for 24 hours at 0 °C.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a bolus does of about 5000 units, followed by about 1200 to about 1600 units per hour optionally delivered by an infusion pump.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of about 18 units/kg to about 5000 units/kg.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of about 100 units/kg to about 800 units/kg.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of about 18 units/kg to about 75 units/kg.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of about 5000 units, about 4000 units, about 3000 units, about 2000 units, about 1000 units or about 500 units every 12 hours.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of about 5000 units every 12 hours.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of about 3 units to about 5000 units, for example from about 6 units to about 4000 units, from about 12 units to about 3000 units, from about 25 units to about 2000 units, from about 50 units to about 1000 units, from about 100 units to about 500 units, or from about 125 units to about 250 units.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of about 18 unit/kg to about 5000 units/kg, for example from about 100 units/kg to about 4000 units per/kg, or from about 200 units/kg to about 800 units/kg.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of about 18 units/kg to about 75 units/kg.
• the dose may be given as a single dose or as a continuous dose.
• the dose may be given over a period of time.
• the period of time may be from about 1 month to about 12 months, for example from about 2 months to about 11 months, from about 3 months to about 10 months, from about 4 months to about 9 months, from about 5 months to about 8 months, from about 6 months to about 7 months.
• the period of time may be about 1 day to 7 days, about 2 days to about 6 days, about 3 days to about 5 days, about 4 days to about 5 days.
• the dose may be administered over about 1 hour to about 24 hours, about 2 hours to about 12 hours, about 3 hours to about 6 hours.
• the dose may be administered for the duration of the underlying endotheliopathy and raised VWF levels.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of about 0.01 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, for example at a dose of about 0.05 mg/kg to about 9 mg/kg, about 0.5 mg/kg to about 8 mg/kg, about 1 mg/kg to about 7 mg/kg, about 1.5 mg/kg to about 6 mg/kg, or about 2 mg/kg to about 5 mg/kg.
• the dose may be given as a single dose or as a continuous dose. The dose may be given over a period of time.
• the period of time may be from about 1 month to about 12 months, for example from about 2 months to about 11 months, from about 3 months to about 10 months, from about 4 months to about 9 months, from about 5 months to about 8 months, from about 6 months to about 7 months.
• the period of time may be about 1 day to about 7 days, about 2 days to about 6 days, about 3 days to about 5 days, about 4 days to about 5 days.
• the dose may be administered over about 1 hour to about 24 hours, about 2 hours to about 12 hours, about 3 hours to about 6 hours.
• the dose may be administered for the duration of the underlying endotheliopathy and raised VWF levels.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of from about 0.01 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg, from about 0.05 mg/kg to about 8 mg/kg, from about 0.1 mg/kg to about 5 mg/kg, from about 0.5 mg/kg to about 2 mg/kg, from about 1 mg/kg to about 1.5 mg/kg.
• the dose may be given as a single dose or as a continuous dose.
• the dose may be given over a period of time. The period of time may be from about 1 month to about 12 months, for example from about 2 months to about 11 months, from about 3 months to about 10 months, from about 4 months to about 9 months, from about 5 months to about 8 months, from about 6 months to about 7 months.
• the period of time may be from about 1 day to about 7 days, from about 2 days to about 6 days, from about 3 days to about 5 days, from about 4 days to about 5 days.
• the dose may be administered over about 1 hour to about 24 hours, about 2 hours to about 12 hours, about 3 hours to about 6 hours.
• the dose may be administered for the duration of the underlying endotheliopathy and raised VWF levels.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of from about 0.1 mg to about 5000 mg, from about 0.5 mg to about 2000 mg, from about 1 mg to about 1000 mg, from about 5 mg to about 900 mg, from about 10 mg to about 800 mg, from about 20 mg to about 700 mg, from about 30 mg to about 600 mg, from about 50 mg to about 500 mg, from about 75 mg to about 400 mg, from about 100 mg to about 300 mg, from about 125 mg to about 250 mg, from about 150 mg to about 200 mg.
• the dose may be given as a single dose or as a continuous dose. The dose may be given over a period of time.
• the period of time may be from about 1 month to about 12 months, for example from about 2 months to about 11 months, from about 3 months to about 10 months, from about 4 months to about 9 months, from about 5 months to about 8 months, from about 6 months to about 7 months.
• the period of time may be from about 1 day to about 7 days, from about 2 days to about 6 days, from about 3 days to about 5 days, from about 4 days to about 5 days.
• the dose may be administered over about 1 hour to about 24 hours, about 2 hours to about 12 hours, about 3 hours to about 6 hours.
• the dose may be administered for the duration of the underlying endotheliopathy and raised VWF levels.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of, for example about
• IU international units
• the dose may be given as a single dose or as a continuous dose. The dose may be given over a period of time.
• the period of time may be from about 1 month to about 12 months, for example from about 2 months to about 11 months, from about 3 months to about 10 months, from about 4 months to about 9 months, from about 5 months to about 8 months, from about 6 months to about 7 months.
• the period of time may be from about 1 day to about 7 days, from about
• the dose may be administered over about 1 hour to about 24 hours, about 2 hours to about 12 hours, about 3 hours to about 6 hours.
• the dose may be administered for the duration of the underlying endotheliopathy and raised VWF levels.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered at a dose of from about 1 IU to about 50000 IU, from about 2 IU to about 25 000 IU, from about 5 IU to about 20000 IU, from about 10 IU to about 10000 IU, from about 15 IU to about 5000 IU, from about 20 IU to about 2500 IU, from about 25 IU to about 2000 IU, from about 50 IU to about 1500 IU, from about 75 IU to about 1000 IU, from about 100 IU to about 500 IU, from about 200 IU to about 400 IU, from about 250 IU to about 300 IU.
• the dose may be given as a single dose or as a continuous dose. The dose may be given over a period of time.
• the period of time may be from about 1 month to about 12 months, for example from about 2 months to about 11 months, from about 3 months to about 10 months, from about 4 months to about 9 months, from about 5 months to about 8 months, from about 6 months to about 7 months.
• the period of time may be from about 1 day to about 7 days, from about 2 days to about 6 days, from about 3 days to about 5 days, from about 4 days to about 5 days.
• the dose may be administered over about 1 hour to about 24 hours, about 2 hours to about 12 hours, about 3 hours to about 6 hours.
• the dose may be administered for the duration of the underlying endotheliopathy and raised VWF levels.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be administered that is commensurate with the VWF antigen: ADAMTS13 ratio.
• a patient with a high VWF antigen: ADAMTS13 ratio may be administered a higher dose of MMWFI compared to a patient with a VWF antigen: ADAMTS13 ratio that is lower.
• the medium molecular weight heparin may be comprised in a pharmaceutical formulation.
• the pharmaceutical formulation comprises a composition of matter suitable for administration to a subject.
• the pharmaceutical formulation may be in liquid, solid, colloidal or aerosol form.
• the excipient may be selected from the group consisting of solvents, co-solvents, buffers, stabilisers, antioxidants, preservatives, chelating agents, emulsifiers, flavourings, lubricants, suspending agents, tonicity adjusting agents, surfactants, solubilising agents, suspending aids, dispersion agents, humectants, thickeners, colouring agent, wetting agent, anti-foaming agent, viscosity modifier, sweeteners and combinations thereof.
• the pharmaceutical formulation may comprise glucose.
• the pharmaceutical formulation may comprise sodium chloride.
• the pharmaceutical formulation may comprise phosphate buffered saline.
• the pharmaceutical formulation may comprise an additional active agent.
• the additional active agent comprises a composition of matter that has a physiological effect.
• the additional active agent may comprise low molecular weight heparin or a medium molecular weight heparin of a different disaccharide composition.
• the additional active agent may be selected from the group comprising farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist, a peroxisome proliferator-activator receptor (PPAR) agonist, aramchol, a caspase inhibitor, a galectin 3 inhibitor, a mitogen-activated protein kinase 5 (MAPK5) inhibitor, a fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) agonist, a FGF21 agonist, a leukotriene D4 (LTD4) receptor antagonist, a niacin analog, an apical sodium bile acid cotransporter (ASBT) inhibitor, an apoptosis signal regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) inhibitor, an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, an angiotensin receptor blocker, a chemokine receptor inhibitor, a thiozolidinedione, a GLP- 1 analog, a biguanide, an HIV replication inhibitor, metoformin, an opiate, an an
• the medium molecular weight heparin may comprise a chemical modification.
• the chemical modification comprises any chemical change to the medium molecular weight heparin. Accordingly, the chemical change may comprise N-acetylation, N-deacetylation, N-sulfation, O-sulfation, 2-0 desulfation, complete desulfation, or any combination of these.
• the invention provides a kit comprising medium molecular weight heparin as defined herein for use in the treatment of endotheliopathy.
• the kit may comprise the medium molecular weight heparin in a unit dosage form, in a dosage as defined herein.
• the kit may comprise a pharmaceutical package.
• the kit may comprise the necessary reagents to synthesise the medium molecular weight heparin for use according to the invention.
• the invention provides a method of treating endotheliopathy, the method comprising administering to a subject in need of treatment a therapeutically effective amount of medium molecular weight heparin as defined herein.
• the therapeutic effective amount is any amount of medium molecular weight heparin required to treat to some extent the endotheliopathy.
• the invention provides the use of the medium molecular weight heparin as defined herein for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of endotheliopathy.
• Factor lla also known as thrombin acts as a serine protease that converts soluble fibrogen into insoluble strands of fibrin, as well as catalysing other coagulation-related reactions.
• Factor Xa is the activated form of the coagulation factor X.
• Factor X is an serine endopeptidase enzyme, which plays a key role at several stages of the coagulation system.
• Fleparin unfractionated heparin
• its derivatives e.g. low molecular weight heparin
• AT antithrombin
• This inactivation of Factor Xa by heparins is termed "indirect” since it relies on the presence of AT and not a direct interaction with Factor Xa.
• MMW Fleparin exhibits very low activity against Factor lla and Factor Xa, respectively, as compared to UF Fleparin and LMW (low molecular weight) Fleparin.
• MMW Fleparin does not affect Factor lla or Factor Xa-mediated coagulation.
• Ristocetin stock (50 mg/mL) was diluted with saline to 24 mg/mL 20 pLof 24 mg/m L ristocetin in saline in a 400 pL solution provides a solution with a ristocetin concentration of 1.2 mg/mL
• MMW heparin (11 kDa, 0,569 g) was dissolved in H2O (10 mL) to provide a 5.2 mM solution of MMW heparin in H2O.
• the 5.2 mM stock solution of MMW heparin in H2O was frozen at -20 °C.
• MMW heparin was diluted in saline as follows:
• Blood samples were taken from a non-smoker not on any anti-platelet therapy (for example, aspirin).
• An anti-platelet therapy may also be known as a platelet agglutination inhibitor or a platelet aggregation inhibitor.
• the volume of agonist (ristocetin) added for the LTA studies should be consistent, and not more than 10% of the total sample volume. In the present example, the volume of agonist should not be more than 40 m ⁇ .
• MMW heparin (11 kDa, 0,569 g) was dissolved in H2O (10 mL) to provide a 5.2 mM solution of MMW heparin in H2O.
• the 5.2 mM stock solution of MMW heparin in H2O was frozen at -20 °C.
• an anti-VWF monoclonal antibody which blocks ristocetin induced platelet aggregation was used as a positive control. Briefly, Ab #701 5.5 mg/mL was diluted in saline at 200 pg/mL. 20 pL of the 200 pg/mL Ab #701 in saline was further diluted with 400 pL PRP to give a final antibody concentration of lOpg/mL.
• ADP Stock concentration 5 mM, diluted at 40 pM in saline. 20 pL of the 40 pM ADP stock solution in a final volume of 400 pL provides a final concentration of ADP of 2 pM.
• Collagen Stock concentration 1 mg/mL, diluted at 40 pg/mL in saline. 20 pL of the 40 pg/mL Collagen stock solution in a final volume of 400 pL provides a final concentration of Collagen of 2 pg/mL.
• TRAP6 Stock concentration 20 mM, diluted at 200 pM in saline. 20 pL of the 200 pM ADP stock solution in a final volume of 400 pL provides a final concentration of ADP of 10 pM.
• ristocetin working solution i.e. ristocetin diluted in saline (as described above under Preparation of the ristocetin working solution) was added to the LMWH, ReoPro and PRP solution to give a final solution volume of 400 pL, and a final ristocetin concentration of 1.2 mg/mL.
• ristocetin working solution i.e. ristocetin diluted in saline (as described above under Preparation of the ristocetin working solution) was added to the Monoclonal anti-VWF, ReoPro and PRP solution to give a final solution volume of 400 pL, and a final ristocetin concentration of 1.2 mg/mL.
• Agonists investigated were ADP, Collagen and TRAP6.
• ADP 2 mM
• Collagen 2 mg/mL; or TRAP6: 10 mM
• the dose response curve is shown in Figure 6.
• the dose response curve is shown in Figure 7.
• MMWH has been tested in von Willebrand factor (VWF)-dependent platelet agglutination experiments as well as in platelet aggregation tests induced by ADP, collagen or Thrombin Receptor Activating Peptide-6 (TRAP6).
• VWF von Willebrand factor
• TRAP6 Thrombin Receptor Activating Peptide-6
• LMWFI low molecular weight heparin
• a monoclonal anti-VWF antibody were used as a negative and positive control, respectively.
• medium molecular weight heparin for the use according to clause 2, wherein the medium molecular weight heparin inhibits multimers of von Willebrand factor, optionally wherein the von Willebrand factor is ultra-large von Willebrand factor.
• medium molecular weight heparin for the use according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein medium molecular weight heparin inhibits the binding of platelets to von Willebrand factor.
• medium molecular weight heparin for the use according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the medium molecular weight heparin has a mass in the range of greater than about 8000 Da (g/mol) to about 13000 Da (g/mol), optionally wherein the medium molecular weight heparin a mass of about 11 000 Da (g/mol).
• medium molecular weight heparin for the use according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the medium molecular weight heparin comprises at least three units of a ldoA2S- GlcNS6S disaccharide.
• medium molecular weight heparin for the use according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the medium molecular weight heparin is administered by an administration method selected from the group consisting of: parenteral, subcutaneous, depot form, for example depot injection, intravenous, intramuscular, intrathecal, intradermal, intraarterial, intraarticular, cutaneous, transcutaneous, intra-osseus, or inhalation.
• parenteral subcutaneous, depot form, for example depot injection, intravenous, intramuscular, intrathecal, intradermal, intraarterial, intraarticular, cutaneous, transcutaneous, intra-osseus, or inhalation.
• Medium molecular weight heparin for the use according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the Medium molecular heparin is administered at a dose of about 0.01 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg.
• the excipient is selected from the group consisting of solvents, co-solvents, buffers, stabilisers, antioxidants, preservatives, chelating agents, emulsifiers, flavourings, lubricants, suspending agents, tonicity adjusting agents, surfactants, solubilising agents, suspending aids, dispersion agents, humectants, thickeners, colouring agent, wetting agent, anti-foaming agent, viscosity modifier, sweeteners and combinations thereof.
• the excipient is selected from the group consisting of solvents, co-solvents, buffers, stabilisers, antioxidants, preservatives, chelating agents, emulsifiers, flavourings, lubricants, suspending agents, tonicity adjusting agents, surfactants, solubilising agents, suspending aids, dispersion agents, humectants, thickeners, colouring agent, wetting agent, anti-foaming agent, viscosity modifier, sweeteners
• kits comprising a medium molecular weight heparin for use according to clauses 1-23.
• a method of treating endotheliopathy comprising administering to a subject in need of treatment a therapeutically effective amount of medium molecular weight heparin.
• Gralinski LE Baric RS. Molecular pathology of emerging coronavirus infections. J Pathol. 2015 Jan;235(2):185-95.
• Coagulation markers are independent predictors of increased oxygen requirements and thrombosis in COVID-19. J Thromb Haemost. 2020;18(12):3382-4.

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• 2021
  • 2021-05-14 GB GBGB2106972.9A patent/GB202106972D0/en not_active Ceased
• 2022
  • 2022-05-16 WO PCT/EP2022/063222 patent/WO2022238587A1/en not_active Ceased
  • 2022-05-16 CN CN202280045684.XA patent/CN117915923A/zh active Pending
  • 2022-05-16 EP EP22729556.5A patent/EP4337225A1/en active Pending
  • 2022-05-16 AU AU2022273186A patent/AU2022273186A1/en active Pending
  • 2022-05-16 CA CA3219993A patent/CA3219993A1/en active Pending
  • 2022-05-16 JP JP2023570373A patent/JP2024517355A/ja active Pending
  • 2022-05-16 US US18/290,533 patent/US20240245718A1/en active Pending

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