Mechanics of transient platelet adhesion to von Willebrand factor under flow

70Citations
Citations of this article
60Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

This article is free to access.

Abstract

A primary and critical step in platelet attachment to injured vascular endothelium is the formation of reversible tether bonds between the platelet glycoprotein receptor Ibα and the A1 domain of surface-bound von Willebrand factor (vWF). Due to the platelet's unique ellipsoidal shape, the force mechanics involved in its tether bond formation differs significantly from that of leukocytes and other spherical cells. We have investigated the mechanics of platelet tethering to surface-immobilized vWF-A1 under hydrodynamic shear flow. A computer algorithm was used to analyze digitized images recorded during flow-chamber experiments and track the microscale motions of platelets before, during, and after contact with the surface. An analytical two-dimensional model was developed to calculate the motion of a tethered platelet on a reactive surface in linear shear flow. Through comparison of the theoretical solution with experimental observations, we show that attachment of platelets occurs only in orientations that are predicted to result in compression along the length of the platelet and therefore on the bond being formed. These results suggest that hydrodynamic compressive forces may play an important role in initiating tether bond formation. © 2005 by the Biophysical Society.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Mody, N. A., Lomakin, O., Doggett, T. A., Diacovo, T. G., & King, M. R. (2005). Mechanics of transient platelet adhesion to von Willebrand factor under flow. Biophysical Journal, 88(2), 1432–1443. https://doi.org/10.1529/biophysj.104.047001

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free