Utility of microfluidic devices to study the platelet-endothelium interface

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Vascular Biology
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Advancements in biomaterials and vascular biology have enabled the creation of perfusable endothelialized flow models.
• These models mimic the physical biology of the platelet-endothelium interface under shear stress.
• They allow for the study of platelet recruitment and activation under physiologically relevant blood flow conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review mechanistic insights gained from perfusable microvessel models.
• To discuss the utility and challenges of endothelialized microfluidic devices for studying platelet function.
• To highlight the importance of these models in understanding blood flow dynamics and platelet behavior.

Main Methods:

• Development of perfusable endothelialized flow models.
• Variation of model parameters including geometry, compliance, biorheology, and cellular complexity.
• In vitro studies of platelet-endothelium interactions under controlled shear conditions.

Main Results:

• Mechanistic insights into platelet recruitment and activation at the interface.
• Understanding of how physical and biological parameters influence platelet function.
• Demonstration of the value of microfluidic devices in recapitulating blood flow phenomena.

Conclusions:

• Perfusable endothelialized microvessel models are valuable tools for studying platelet function in vitro.
• These models provide a platform to investigate the platelet-endothelium interface under shear.
• Further development of endothelialized microfluidic devices holds potential for advancing our understanding of blood flow and platelet dynamics.