An in vitro Method for Assessing Biomaterial-Associated Platelet Activation

Abstract

The development of a nonthrombogenic artificial surface for use with indwelling sensors or catheters remains an elusive goal despite decades of ongoing research. In vivo studies are both labor intensive and costly, and are therefore an inefficient way to rapidly screen possible surface materials. The following in vitro model used glass, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polypropylene test tubes incubated with 111In-labeled rabbit platelets and illustrated that, despite equivalent platelet count and function, platelet adhesion was greatest on glass (n = 13), with PVC (n = 17) at 67 +/- 8% and polypropylene (n = 13) at 43 +/- 5% when compared with glass. Extrapolating this method by coating test tubes with new, nonthrombogenic materials is a quick and reliable way to screen material before embarking upon more lengthy in vivo animal studies.

Early implant healing: promotion of platelet activation and cytokine release by topographical, chemical and biomimetical titanium surface modifications in vitro

“…Especially extracellular matrix‐like biomimetic surface modifications are a promising approach for further regulation of platelet activation (Li et al 2009). In prior studies, a positive influence of unspecific biomaterial surface topography and chemistry on platelet activation could be shown (Park, et al 2001; Kikuchi, et al 2005; Chuang & Lin 2007; LaFayette, et al 2007; Klein, et al 2010). However, the use of clinical applicable specific biomimetical surface modifications still has not quit experimental levels and remains exciting.…”

Modulation of platelet activation and initial cytokine release by alloplastic bone substitute materials

“…It has been shown that platelet activation with consecutive degranulation and release of cytokines can be modulated by biomaterial surface properties like texture, chemical composition and electrical charge (Chuang & Lin 2007;LaFayette et al 2007). In oral and maxillofacial surgery, especially implant surfaces have been the focus of various in vitro studies.…”

Biomaterials for medical devices: Are current hemo‐ or biocompatibility tests adequate?

“…Further, the behaviour of platelets in biocompatibility testing is extremely important because these cells determine the initial events of the blood-clotting cascade. For example, metabolically inhibited platelets do not adhere to glass test tubes, whereas their passive adhesion to polypropylene tubes remains unchanged [13]. All these factors may contribute to disturbances in coagulation behaviour of uremic blood and thus influence the …”