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Function of Liver Molecule is Determined

Posted on: Tuesday, 20 May 2008, 12:00 CDT

U.S. scientists say they've discovered a molecule in the liver plays a vital role in helping the body fight lethal bacteria-caused blood clotting.

University of California-San Diego School of Medicine researchers said their finding solves the longest-standing mystery in glycobiology -- the study of complex sugar chains called glycans. Until now, it was suspected the Ashwell receptor might serve to remove abnormal proteins from circulation, but it wasn't understood which proteins were affected or what biological purpose the receptor served.

The study shows the Ashwell receptor is essential in reducing coagulation abnormalities during infection and sepsis, significantly improving the probability of survival.

Sepsis, a life-threatening complication of bacterial infection in the blood, remains a major cause of death worldwide, said Professor Jamey Marth, the study's principal investigator. He said a major factor contributing to death in sepsis patients is a condition called disseminated intravascular coagulation, which accelerates blood clotting.

The UCSD researchers discovered a protective response, triggered by the Ashwell receptor, limits that lethal side effect by reducing the levels of circulating blood coagulation factors, including platelets.

The study is examined in detail online, in advance of publication in the June issue of the journal Nature Medicine.

Source: United Press International

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