Continuous Coagulation Monitoring in Human Blood Samples via Magnetic Particle Spectroscopy

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) is a radiation-free imaging technique utilizing iron oxide nanoparticles.
• Magnetic Particle Spectroscopy (MPS), a non-imaging technique, offers sensitive analytics of magnetic nanoparticles.
• Clinical applications of MPI are emerging with approved tracers like Resotran and human-scale scanners.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of MPS for real-time monitoring of human blood coagulation.
• To assess the feasibility of using MPS for continuous coagulation analysis.

Main Methods:

• Blood samples from five volunteers were analyzed using a custom-built MPS system.
• Resotran, a commercial MRI contrast agent, was added to blood samples.
• Signal dynamics were monitored for 45 minutes under varying conditions, including anticoagulants and mechanical stress, with temperature control.

Main Results:

• A time-dependent signal decrease was observed in Resotran-containing blood samples.
• Anticoagulants (EDTA, Citrate, Heparin) influenced the signal decay rate.
• Mechanical stress also induced signal decay, correlating MPS signal changes with blood coagulation.

Conclusions:

• Continuous monitoring of human blood coagulation using MPS is feasible.
• MPS offers a promising approach for real-time, bedside coagulation monitoring in clinical settings.