New Study Brings Hope for Safer Bleeding Treatments

Recent research from the University of North Carolina School of Medicine offers promising insights into blood clot management and potential advances in bleeding treatment safety. Published in the journal Blood, the study explores how the body forms and dissolves blood clots and how manipulating these processes might improve patient outcomes.

Led by Professor Alisa Wolberg, the research team investigated whether inhibiting the breakdown of blood clots increases the risk of harmful clot formation, known as thrombosis. Using a combination of patient data, genetically modified mouse models, and molecular analysis, they found that blocking the key proteins involved in clot breakdown does not necessarily lead to dangerous clots.

This discovery is particularly significant for patients at risk of severe bleeding—such as trauma victims, those with bleeding disorders, or women with heavy menstrual bleeding. Medications like tranexamic acid, which help prevent clot breakdown and reduce bleeding, have been used carefully due to fears of causing excessive clotting. However, the new findings suggest these treatments might be safer than previously thought.

"Understanding the mechanisms of clot formation and dissolution is crucial," said Wolberg. "Our research indicates that we can potentially use blood clot stabilizers without the heightened risk of thrombosis, opening doors to improved bleeding management strategies."

Ultimately, this study highlights the importance of biomedical research in developing safer, more effective treatment options—all with the goal of saving lives and improving health outcomes. As Wolberg emphasizes, discovery science can directly translate into better healthcare solutions, making treatments both safer and more accessible for patients in need.

More details about the study are available through the DOI: 10.1182/blood.2025028680.