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Investigating von Willebrand Factor Pathophysiology Using a Flow Chamber Model of von Willebrand Factor-platelet String Formation
Published on: August 14, 2017
Cell-derived microparticles and von Willebrand factor in Brazilian renal transplant recipients
Suellen R Martins1, Lorraine V Alves1, Carolina N Cardoso1
1Departament of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
Aim:
This study was aimed at investigating platelet-derived microparticles (PMP), endothelium cell-derived microparticles (EMP) and von Willebrand factor (VWF) according to renal function and time post-transplant. We found this study relevant because unusual biomarkers seem to be a promising tool to evaluate chronic renal disease and post-transplant monitoring.
Methods:
Ninety-one renal transplant recipients (RTx) were allocated into groups according to creatinine plasma levels (C1 < 1.4 and C2 ≥ 1.4 mg/dL), estimated glomerular filtration rates (R1 < 60 and R2 ≥ 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 ) and time post-transplant (T1: 3-24; T2: 25-60; T3: 61-120; and T4 > 120 months). EMP and PMP levels were assessed by flow cytometry and VWF levels were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
Results:
Platelet-derived microparticle levels were higher in C1 group compared with C2 (P = 0.00). According to diameter, small PMP and EMP (≤0.7 μm) were also higher in C1 group, all values of P less than 0.05. T1 and T2 groups have shown high EMP levels and a predominance of big microparticle (>0.7 μm) compared with T4 group, all values of P less than 0.05. Higher VWF levels were observed among RTx with creatinine ≥1.4 mg/dL compared with other RTx, P = 0.01.
Conclusion:
The results showed that PMP, EMP and VWF are promising markers to evaluate endothelial function in RTx. These biomarkers could play a major role in monitoring patients after renal transplant.
Insights
Platelet-derived microparticles (PMP) and endothelium cell-derived microparticles (EMP) are elevated in renal transplant recipients with better renal function. These microparticles and von Willebrand factor (VWF) show potential for monitoring transplant patients.
Area of Science:
- Biomarkers
- Renal Transplantation
- Endothelial Function
Background:
- Chronic kidney disease and post-transplant monitoring require novel biomarkers.
- Platelet-derived microparticles (PMP), endothelium cell-derived microparticles (EMP), and von Willebrand factor (VWF) are potential indicators of renal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate PMP, EMP, and VWF levels in renal transplant recipients (RTx).
- To correlate these biomarkers with renal function and time elapsed since transplantation.
Main Methods:
- Ninety-one RTx were grouped by creatinine levels and estimated glomerular filtration rates.
- Time post-transplant was categorized into four groups (T1-T4).
- EMP and PMP levels were measured using flow cytometry; VWF levels were assessed via ELISA.
Main Results:
- Higher PMP levels were observed in RTx with lower creatinine (<1.4 mg/dL).
- Small PMP and EMP (≤0.7 μm) were more prevalent in the better renal function group.
- Elevated EMP levels and larger microparticles were noted in earlier post-transplant periods (T1, T2) compared to later periods (T4).
- Increased VWF levels correlated with higher creatinine levels (≥1.4 mg/dL).
Conclusions:
- PMP, EMP, and VWF are promising biomarkers for assessing endothelial function in RTx.
- These biomarkers may be valuable tools for monitoring patients post-renal transplant.
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