Microfluidic technology as an emerging clinical tool to evaluate thrombosis and hemostasis

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Hematology
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Traditional static assays for hemostatic and thrombotic disorders have limitations.
• Evaluating platelet function and coagulation under dynamic flow conditions is crucial for comprehensive assessment.
• Microfluidic devices offer a promising approach for flow-based hemostasis testing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the utility of microfluidic devices for assessing platelet function and coagulation under flow.
• To demonstrate how flow-based assays augment traditional static methods.
• To explore the potential of microfluidic assays in diagnosing hemostatic/thrombotic disorders and monitoring therapies.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing microfluidic devices that generate wall shear stress to simulate in vivo blood flow conditions.
• Analyzing platelet activation, coagulation cascade engagement, and fibrin deposition.
• Comparing flow-based assay outputs with traditional static assays.

Main Results:

• Microfluidic assays require minimal blood volume and provide diverse output options.
• These assays effectively mimic in vivo interactions between blood components and vessel walls.
• Flow-based testing yields essential information on hemostatic regulation and clot formation.

Conclusions:

• Microfluidic flow assays provide valuable data for evaluating hemostatic and thrombotic disorders.
• Emerging evidence suggests these assays can identify specific pathological patterns.
• Microfluidic assays show potential for personalized therapy assessment and monitoring.