Suppression of shear-induced hemolysis by three plasma proteins

Hemolysis was induced in erythrocyte suspensions by shearing between rotating metal disks 10 cm in diameter at 325 rev/min; stresses did not exceed 100 dynes/cm2. The role of proteins (gamma-globulin, G; albumin, A; fibrinogen, F) in the environment was tested in two ways. First, disks were precoated by exposure to protein solutions of physiologic concentration and then used to hemolyze the suspensions. Tests carried to 10(4) sec showed protective effects, relative to shearing with virgin disks, with a ranking G greater than A greater than F. Second, proteins were dissolved in the suspension media and hemolysis compared to the case without protein. Large suppression of hemolysis was found during storage (G approximately A greater than F) but only G offered significant protection against shear.