RBC aggregation in dextran solutions can be measured by flow cytometry

Area of Science:

• Biophysics
• Hematology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Red blood cell (RBC) aggregation is crucial in microcirculation, but current measurement techniques have limitations.
• Understanding macromolecule-induced RBC aggregation is vital for various physiological and pathological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a flow cytometry-based method for quantifying RBC aggregation.
• To assess the impact of dextran T500 concentration on RBC aggregation.

Main Methods:

• Red blood cells were suspended in dextran T500 solutions and fixed in their aggregated state using glutaraldehyde.
• Flow cytometry was used to detect RBC auto-fluorescence, correlating fluorescence intensity with the number of RBCs per event.
• Quantitative analysis distinguished between single cells and various sizes of RBC aggregates.

Main Results:

• RBC aggregation, including larger aggregates, increased with dextran T500 concentrations up to 6% and then decreased at 8% and 10%.
• The highest percentage of larger aggregates was observed at a 4% dextran T500 concentration.
• Flow cytometry data were validated by microscopic observations and aligned with existing literature.

Conclusions:

• Flow cytometry provides a rapid, quantitative, and sensitive method for measuring RBC aggregation.
• This technique offers advantages in terms of sample volume and detailed aggregate distribution analysis compared to conventional methods.