A Point-of-Care Test to Quantify Tranexamic Acid Levels

Background

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic that is commonly administered for the treatment or prevention of bleeding for various conditions, including traumatic brain injuries, surgical site bleeding, and postpartum hemorrhage, among others. However, there is a lack of evidence-based dosing guidelines for TXA largely due to a lack of assays that can be used clinically and routinely. This is a problem because high levels of TXA may lead to neurological complications such as seizures and even clots in the lungs.

Technology Overview

Researchers at McMaster University have developed an assay to measure TXA levels in patient plasma samples, as a simple and rapid method of performing a point-of-care test in clinical settings.

Benefits

• No existing point-of-care assays have been developed to quantity TXA levels in plasma
• The assay is very simple and easy to use
• Test is completed within seconds, thus providing a rapid turnaround time for results

Applications

• A point-of-care test to measure TXA levels in patient plasma samples
• Monitor to ensure patients are receiving appropriate doses in various clinical settings:
  • Bleeding clinics
  • Trauma for massive bleeding
  • Invasive surgeries
• Investigate pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of TXA to identify appropriate dosages

Opportunity

McMaster University is seeking partners for licensing and research collaboration.