Use of Anti-factor xi antibodies for prevention of thrombus formation

Abstract

The present invention relates to binding molecules such as antibodies that specifically bind plasma coagulation factor XI and that inhibit factor XI activation and / or activity. The factor XI-binding molecules of the invention may used in methods for preventing or treating diseases, disorders and / or conditions that are mediated by factor XI activation and / or wherein inhibition of factor XI has a beneficial effect.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention is in the field of haematology, in particular the field of coagulation. The invention relates to methods for inhibiting the formation of blood clots using binding molecules that specifically bind and inhibit the activation and / or activity of factor XI. The antigen binding molecule may or may not be specific for the activated conformation of factor XI and is preferably used in methods for reducing or preventing thrombus formation on synthetic grafts, atherosclerotic plaques or in other pathological thrombotic and thrombo-embolic processes.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Coagulation consists of a humoral and a cellular response. The former leads to the conversion of soluble fibrinogen into insoluble fibrin, the latter consists of activation of platelets leading to a platelet plug. Platelet plugs, fibrin threads and included red blood cells together constitute a blood clot. A key molecule in clot formation is thrombin. This protease co...