Affiliations: [a] School of Chemical, Biological and Materials Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA | [b] The Institute of Physical and Chemical Research (RIKEN), Wako-shi, Saitama, Japan
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: Prof. Edgar A. O’Rear, School of Chemical, Biological and Materials Engineering, University of Oklahoma, 100 E. Boyd, SEC T301, Norman, OK 73019, USA. Tel.: +1405-325-4379; Fax: +1405-325-5813; E-mail: [email protected].
Abstract: Background:Devices gauging viscoelastic properties of blood during coagulation like the thromboelastograph support fundamental research as well as point of care needs. Associated fibrinolysis data are based on endogenous species or plasminogen activator added to a homogeneous sample prior to clot formation. Digestion in a monolithic structure differs from the physical situation of thrombolytic therapy where surface reactions dominate. Objective:This study aims to develop rheological testing for heterogeneous phase fibrinolysis. Method:Fibrinolysis rates were determined by phase change of a solid clot induced by autologous plasma/streptokinase (SK) in a rheometer sensitive to viscous damping. Results:Initial slope or overall change in the logarithmic damping factor indicated fibrinolytic rates. Rates depended on clot geometry, phase volumes, clot composition and SK concentration. Conclusion:The damped oscillation rheometer can be adapted to determine relative rates of heterogeneous fibrinolysis in vitro.
