Not Just Anticoagulation—New and Old Applications of Heparin

Abstract

In recent decades, heparin, as the most important anticoagulant drug, has been widely used in clinical settings to prevent and treat thrombosis in a variety of diseases. However, with in-depth research, the therapeutic potential of heparin is being explored beyond anticoagulation. To date, heparin and its derivatives have been tested in the protection against and repair of inflammatory, antitumor, and cardiovascular diseases. It has also been explored as an antiangiogenic, preventive, and antiviral agent for atherosclerosis. This review focused on the new and old applications of heparin and discussed the potential mechanisms explaining the biological diversity of heparin.