This disclosure relates to specific binding agents, such as isolated recombinant monoclonal antibodies, that bind Glycoprotein Ib alpha (GPIba). More specifically, the disclosure relates to methods of preventing platelet ectodomain shedding, preventing platelet clearance and degradation, maintaining and increasing platelet blood serum levels for in vitro or in vivo applications. In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to the production, diagnostic use, and therapeutic use of monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies, and the antigen-binding fragments thereof, which specifically bind GPIba. Aspects of the disclosure also relate to hybridomas or other cell lines expressing such antibodies for specific binding agent. Compositions and methods for inhibiting shedding, clearance, or degradation, or treating diseases associated with GPIba ectodomain shedding are also described.
