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Erythrocyte membrane fluidity in subjects affected with reversible ischemic attacks (RIA)
M G Tozzi-Ciancarelli1, E Tozzi, G De Matteis
1Department of Biotechnology and Biometry, School of Medicine, University of L'Aquila, Italy.
Rivista Europea Per Le Scienze Mediche E Farmacologiche = European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences = Revue Europeenne Pour Les Sciences Medicales Et Pharmacologiques
|February 1, 1991
Summary
Pentoxifylline treatment improved erythrocyte membrane fluidity in patients with cerebrovascular disease (CVD). This enhancement in red blood cell properties positively impacts blood flow within the microcirculation.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Hematology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cerebrovascular disease (CVD) affects hemorheological properties in approximately 50% of patients.
- Microhemorheological perturbations, particularly in erythrocyte membranes, are observed in CVD patients.
- Altered membrane fluidity and increased blood viscosity are associated with CVD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of Pentoxifylline on microhemorheological perturbations of erythrocyte membranes in CVD patients.
- To assess changes in erythrocyte membrane fluidity and blood viscosity following Pentoxifylline treatment.
- To understand the role of improved erythrocyte membrane fluidity in microcirculation.
Main Methods:
- Study included 20 patients with cerebrovascular disease (RIA's).
- Erythrocyte membrane fluidity was analyzed using fluorescent probes.
- Whole blood viscosity and erythrocyte aggregation were measured.
- Patients were treated with Pentoxifylline, followed by a wash-out period.
Main Results:
- Patients exhibited increased whole blood viscosity and erythrocyte aggregation at study admission.
- Alterations in erythrocyte membrane fluidity were noted in patients compared to controls.
- Pharmacological treatment with Pentoxifylline led to significant improvements in erythrocyte membrane fluidity.
- Post-treatment wash-out data confirmed sustained positive modifications in erythrocyte membranes.
Conclusions:
- Pentoxifylline treatment effectively improves erythrocyte membrane fluidity in CVD patients.
- Enhanced erythrocyte membrane fluidity is a key factor in improving microcirculatory blood flow.
- The study highlights Pentoxifylline's potential therapeutic benefits for hemorheological disorders in CVD.