Biochemically engineered stromal cell-derived factor 1-alpha analog increases perfusion in the ischemic hind limb

The use of cytokines and growth factors to promote revascularization is a well-studied therapeutic strategy. Previous studies have confirmed the efficacy of stromal cell-derived factor 1-alpha (SDF) in revascularizing both cardiac and peripheral vascular disease models. However, there are limitations associated with using recombinant SDF, including its bulkiness and high cost. This study demonstrates that injection of a bioengineered analog of SDF, engineered stromal cell-derived factor 1-alpha, into an ischemic hind limb is an effective therapy that enhances perfusion. Herein, we describe an extremely clinically translatable peptide therapy utilizing a cost-efficient, smaller protein analog resulting in effective microrevascularization of ischemic muscle.