Optimized refolding and characterization of active C-terminal ADAMTS-18 fragment from inclusion bodies of Escherichia coli

► C-terminal rADAMTS-351 was overexpressed mainly as inclusion bodies in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) pLysS. ► Optimized refolding procedure results in the production of active rADAMTS-351. ► Refolded rADAMTS-351 induces platelet fragmentation and disaggregates platelet thrombi in vitro. ► The functional activity of refolded rADAMTS-351 ranged from 81-96% compared to active C-terminal ADAMTS-18 standards.