Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026

10:10
Platelet Adhesion and Aggregation Under Flow using Microfluidic Flow Cells
Published on: October 27, 2009
Tissue-type plasminogen activator and streptokinase induce platelet hyperaggregability in the rabbit
Thrombosis Research
|May 15, 1987
Summary
Thrombolytic therapy with tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) or streptokinase (SK) can cause hyperaggregable platelets. This platelet response may contribute to blood vessel reocclusion after successful recanalization.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Hematology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Thrombolytic agents like tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) and streptokinase (SK) are crucial for dissolving blood clots.
- Understanding the impact of these therapies on platelet function is essential for managing potential complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of in vivo thrombolytic therapy with t-PA and SK on ex vivo platelet aggregability in rabbits.
- To determine if thrombolytic agents induce platelet hyperaggregability and affect circulating platelet counts.
Main Methods:
- Rabbits were treated in vivo with different doses of t-PA (10 and 30 micrograms/kg/min) or SK.
- Ex vivo platelet aggregation was assessed using collagen, arachidonic acid, and ADP as agonists.
- Circulating platelet counts were measured after treatment.
Main Results:
- Both t-PA and SK induced significant ex vivo platelet hyperaggregability in response to various agonists.
- t-PA treatment led to a notable decrease in circulating platelet counts.
- SK infusion also resulted in enhanced platelet aggregation.
Conclusions:
- Thrombolytic therapy with t-PA and SK can lead to a state of platelet hyperaggregability.
- This induced platelet hyperaggregability may be a contributing factor to the reocclusion of blood vessels previously opened by thrombolysis.
Related Concept Videos
Formation of the Platelet Plug
The platelet phase, the second stage of hemostasis, commences around 15-20 seconds after an injury. It follows and overlaps with the vascular phase, during which blood vessels constrict to minimize blood loss.
As the injured blood vessel contracts, endothelial cells undergo contraction, revealing collagen fibers in the basement membrane and underlying connective tissue. Furthermore, the plasma membrane of endothelial cells becomes adhesive, preparing the site for platelet adhesion. Platelets...
As the injured blood vessel contracts, endothelial cells undergo contraction, revealing collagen fibers in the basement membrane and underlying connective tissue. Furthermore, the plasma membrane of endothelial cells becomes adhesive, preparing the site for platelet adhesion. Platelets...
Clot Retraction and Fibrinolysis
After a fibrin clot is formed, the next step is clot retraction, a vital process facilitated by platelet contractile proteins, such as actin and myosin. These proteins pull the fibrin strands closer together and condense the clot. This action reduces the size of the clot, creating a smaller, denser structure that effectively seals off the damaged vessel. Clot retraction consolidates the clot and helps with wound healing by bringing the edges of the damaged blood vessel closer together.

