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Updated: Apr 2, 2026
Microfluidics in Assessing Platelet Function
Published on: November 8, 2024
Monocyte-platelet aggregates and CD11b expression as markers for thrombogenicity in atrial fibrillation
Christian Pfluecke1, Daniel Tarnowski2, Lina Plichta2
1Technische Universität Dresden, Heart Center Dresden, University Hospital, Fetscherstrasse 76, 01307, Dresden, Germany. christian.pfluecke@mailbox.tu-dresden.de.
Background:
A strong interdependence is known between atrial fibrillation (AF), inflammation and thrombogenesis. Monocyte-platelet aggregates (MPAs) are sensitive markers of platelets and monocyte activation. It is not known whether MPAs are associated with thrombogenicity in AF. Therefore, we examined differences in the content of MPAs and CD11b expression in patients with AF in dependence of the presence of atrial thrombus formation.
Methods:
107 patients with symptomatic AF underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) before planned cardioversion or pulmonary vein isolation. Flow-cytometric quantification analysis was done on the day of performed TEE to determine the content of MPAs and the expression of CD11b on monocytes and granulocytes.
Results:
Compared to patients without thrombus (n = 80) those with an echocardiographic proven left atrium (LA) thrombus (n = 27) showed an increased extent of the risk factors age, diabetes and heart failure. The content of MPAs (147 ± 12 vs. 311 ± 29 cells/µl, p < 0.001) as well as the CD11b expression on monocytes (p < 0.05) and granulocytes (p < 0.05) were strongly associated with the existence of a LA thrombus. The content of MPAs and the CD11b expression remained independent predictors for LA thrombus after adjustment in logistic regression analysis and negatively correlated with left atrial appendage flow velocity. MPAs above 170 cells/µl (OR 34.2, p = 0.01) had a sensitivity of 96 % and a specificity of 73 % for predicting LA-thrombus.
Conclusions:
The content of MPAs and the CD11b expression on monocytes and granulocytes are increased in AF-patients with proven thrombus formation. They seem to be appropriate biomarkers for stratification of thromboembolic risk in patients with AF.
Insights
Monocyte-platelet aggregates (MPAs) and CD11b expression are elevated in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with left atrial thrombus. These biomarkers can help stratify thromboembolic risk in AF.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Hematology
- Immunology
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is linked to inflammation and thrombogenesis.
- Monocyte-platelet aggregates (MPAs) indicate platelet and monocyte activation.
- The association between MPAs and thrombogenicity in AF remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate differences in MPA content and CD11b expression in AF patients.
- To determine the relationship between MPAs, CD11b expression, and atrial thrombus formation.
Main Methods:
- 107 symptomatic AF patients underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE).
- Flow cytometry quantified MPA content and CD11b expression on monocytes and granulocytes.
- Analysis was performed on the day of TEE.
Main Results:
- Patients with left atrial (LA) thrombus (n=27) had higher rates of age, diabetes, and heart failure compared to those without (n=80).
- MPA content (p < 0.001) and CD11b expression on monocytes and granulocytes (p < 0.05) were significantly higher in patients with LA thrombus.
- MPA content and CD11b expression were independent predictors of LA thrombus and negatively correlated with left atrial appendage flow velocity.
Conclusions:
- Elevated MPA content and CD11b expression are associated with thrombus formation in AF patients.
- These markers may serve as valuable biomarkers for assessing thromboembolic risk in AF.
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