Cellular mechanisms of material-associated thrombosis

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While cardiovascular devices have significantly increased the life expectancy of millions of people, their use is not without complications. Despite anticoagulant and anti-platelet therapies, blood clots (thrombus) continue to occur with cardiovascular devices such as stents and heart valves. The consequences may be fatal and the cost to treat these thrombotic complications is significant. While most research on thrombus formation has ignored the role of white blood cells (leukocytes), my own research has shown that they may have a significant impact. Using in vitro experiments, whereby blood contacts materials used in mechanical heart valves and stents, this research will examine in more details the role that leukocytes play in thrombus formation in the presence of a material. Particular emphasis will be placed on the interactions between the material, leukocytes and other components of blood such as platelets. This is a holistic approach which will identify interactions that are often overlooked. As a result, this will identify potential target for drug therapies and surface modifications that effectively reduce the incidence of thrombus formation with cardiovascular devices.