Related Experiment Videos
Shape change in human platelets: measurement with a channelyzer and visualisation by electron microscopy
I A Jagroop1, I Clatworthy, J Lewin
1Department of Molecular Pathology and Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free & University College Medical School (University of London), UK.
Platelets
|August 12, 2000
Summary
Median platelet volume (MPV) changes can indicate platelet activation. This study shows MPV increase and pseudopodia formation, suggesting MPV is a useful tool for investigating platelet activation.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Median platelet volume (MPV) increases with platelet activation.
- MPV increase may not fully represent early platelet activation, such as platelet shape change (PSC).
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare MPV changes with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) findings of platelet morphology.
- To evaluate MPV as an indicator of early platelet activation.
Main Methods:
- Platelets were treated with agonists (serotonin, ADP, thromboxane A2 analogue, adrenaline).
- MPV was measured using high-resolution channelyzers.
- Platelet morphology was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Main Results:
- Agonists altered both MPV and SEM findings.
- Adrenaline alone did not affect MPV or SEM.
- Combined low-dose adrenaline and serotonin significantly increased MPV and induced pseudopodia formation (PSC).
Conclusions:
- MPV increase correlates with early platelet activation and pseudopodia formation.
- Channelyzer-based MPV measurement is a reproducible method for serial measurements.
- MPV measurement is a valuable tool for investigating platelet activation.