Defibrotide
Defibrotide is a mixture of single-stranded oligodeoxyribonucleotides derived from the intestinal mucosa of pigs, with anti-thrombotic, thrombolytic, and fibrinolytic activities. Upon administration, and although the exact mechanism of action has yet to be fully elucidated, defibrotide induces the release of prostaglandin I2 (PGI2), E2 (PGE2), and prostacyclin and reduces the expression of adhesion molecules on endothelial cells. This relaxes the smooth muscle of blood vessels and prevents platelets from adhering to each other and to the endothelium. This protects the endothelium lining bloods vessels. Defibrotide increases tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) and decreases plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 activity. This increases the activity of plasmin, prevents blood clot formation and dissolves blood clots.