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The Laser-assisted Optical Rotational Cell Analyzer (LORCA) as red blood cell aggregometer
M R Hardeman1, J G Dobbe, C Ince
1Laboratory for Clinical Hemorheology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands. M.R.Hardeman@amc.uva.nl
Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation
|January 16, 2002
Summary
The Laser-assisted Optical Rotational Cell Analyzer (LORCA) measures red blood cell (RBC) deformability and aggregation. Its aggregometer mode offers flexible, reproducible, and sensitive hemorheological analysis.
Area of Science:
- Hemorheology
- Biophysical techniques
Background:
- Red blood cell (RBC) deformability and aggregation are critical hemorheological parameters.
- Accurate measurement of these parameters is essential for understanding various physiological and pathological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the principles and characteristics of the aggregometer mode of the Laser-assisted Optical Rotational Cell Analyzer (LORCA).
- To evaluate the instrument's feasibility for hemorheological investigations.
Main Methods:
- Utilized syllectometry (laser backscatter versus time) to measure static and kinetic RBC aggregation parameters.
- Incorporated options for automated re-iteration and low shear rate aggregation.
- Assessed reproducibility, stability, and sensitivity using established methods for inducing changes in RBC aggregation.
Main Results:
- The LORCA's aggregometer mode accurately measures RBC aggregation parameters, including total extent, half time, and aggregation index.
- The instrument demonstrated flexibility with options for assessing aggregation tendency and stability.
- Experiments confirmed the instrument's reproducibility, stability, and sensitivity to subtle changes in RBC aggregation.
Conclusions:
- The aggregometer mode of the LORCA significantly enhances its utility for hemorheological investigations.
- The instrument provides a reliable and versatile tool for studying RBC aggregation behavior.