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Dr. Raife's research focuses on mechanisms of microvascular injury and thrombosis in thrombotic microangiopathic (TM) disorders. TM disorders, including thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and the hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), are rare but serious disorders associated with abnormal blood clotting in the smallest vessels of many organs. Our research projects involve analyses of large repositories of blood samples and patient databases to explore biochemical and genetic abnormalities in patients with TM disorders. We utilize measurements of von Willebrand factor (VWF)-cleaving protease to identify TM patients with defects in VWF proteolysis that may be involved in abnormal platelet clotting. Other studies have focused on identification of genetic thrombotic risk factors in TM patients. We are working in collaboration with investigators at Kansas State University to explore an animal model of shigella toxin-associated HUS, a devastating disease of childhood associated with bacterial contamination of food. These experiments may lead to more effective treatments for a food-borne illness that is becoming and increasingly important world-wide health problem. |
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