Microrheological tests in pharmacology

Abstract

In the present investigation we compared the micromechanical properties of treated (pentoxifylline) and untreated red cells by microfiltration tests. To simulate the pathophysiological events of diminished red cell deformability we have altered the rheological properties of red cells in vitro (lactacidosis, cell ageing or Ca²⁺ accumulation). The following methods have been used: 1. filtration technique (Nucleopore); 2. Filtrometer® (Polymicroviscometer); 3. single erythrocyte rigidometer (SER). The flow rate of red cells was significantly increased by pentoxifylline (TRENTAL®) in all of these tests. The results suggest that pentoxifylline possesses a membrane-protecting effect against red cell rigidification.

Key Words:

• blood rheology
• filtration-tests
• RBC-deformability
• Trental®