Clot Retraction and Its Correlation with the Function of Platelet Integrin α_IIbβ₃

Clot retraction results from retractions of platelet filopodia and fibrin fibers and requires the functional platelet α_IIbβ₃ integrin. This assay is widely used to test the functions of platelets and fibrinogen as well as the efficacy of fibrinolysis. Changes in clot retraction have been found in a variety of hemostatic abnormalities and, more recently, in arterial thrombosis. Despite its broad clinical use and low cost, many aspects of clot retraction are poorly understood. In the present study, we performed two clinical standard clot retraction assays using whole-blood and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) samples to determine how clot retraction correlates with platelet counts and mean volume, the density of α_IIbβ₃ integrin and PLA genotypes, and plasma fibrinogen levels. We found that clot retraction was affected by platelet counts, but not mean platelet volume. It correlated with the surface density of the integrin α_Iibβ₃, but not PLA genotypes. These results indicate that clot retraction measures a unique aspect of platelet function and can serve as an additional means to detect functional changes in platelets.