Hematology: Heparanase and Bone Marrow Transplantation Enhancement
The enzyme heparanase is responsible for release and activation of various growth-promoting molecules, and degradation of non-cellular components in tissue matrices. As a result, it plays a dominant role in the process of tissue regeneration. It has been established that its treatment improves homing and engraftment of stem cells for bone marrow regeneration.
In the setting of wound healing, traumatic tissue disruption destroys the cellular elements of the tissue, but at the same time initiates the heparanase-mediated healing process. In the setting of tissue engraftment (e.g., organ transplantation), heparanase is responsible for releasing and activating pro-angiogenic molecules, which promote the formation of new blood vessels and their growth into the newly transplanted organ.
Bone Marrow Transplantation Enhancement and Heparanase
We have established the efficacy of heparanase treatment in terms of improved homing and engraftment of stem cells for bone marrow regeneration. This effect is desired in the setting of bone marrow transplantation after cancer chemotherapy as part of a curative therapy for hematologic malignancies.
Heparanase research at the Rappaport Family Institute for Research in the Medical Sciences is conducted by Prof. Israel Vlodavsky and his team. Commercialization opportunities for heparanase exist in conjunction with Hadasit, the tech transfer company of the Hadassah University Hospitals in Jerusalem.
Commercial Opportunities
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Target/ Molecule |
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Licensed |
Neutralizing Antibody |
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Licensed |
Small molecules inhibitors |
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