Protamine (CAS 9012-00-4) Suppliers and Product Information

Protamine is a protein-based compound rich in cysteine and arginine. It is found in the sperm of vertebrates and is used to neutralize heparin in medical procedures such as heart surgery and dialysis. Protamine from salmon has been used to avoid in vitro AT complex formation in samples from dogs pre-treated with heparin. It has also been studied for its influence on protein adsorption to metal surfaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the main use of protamine?

A: Protamine is primarily used as a heparin neutralizer during heart surgery, dialysis, and other clinical procedures. It is also found to displace histones in DNA during spermatogenesis in animals and plants.

Q: How does protamine work as a heparin antagonist?

A: Protamine, being highly basic, has a greater affinity for the acidic heparin polysaccharides than antithrombin III. This causes protamine to bind to heparin, effectively neutralizing its anticoagulant effects.

Q: Are there any side effects associated with protamine use?

A: Yes, protamine can cause side effects. Anaphylaxis is a potential risk, especially in diabetic patients who have used protamine-containing insulin. Other less common reactions include pulmonary vasoconstriction, hypotension, and thrombus formation.