Advances in Platelet-Dysfunction Diagnostic Technologies

Abstract

The crucial role of platelets in hemostasis and their broad implications under various physiological conditions underscore the importance of accurate platelet-function testing. Platelets are key to clotting blood and healing wounds. Therefore, accurate diagnosis and management of platelet disorders are vital for patient care. This review outlines the significant advancements in platelet-function testing technologies, focusing on their working principles and the shift from traditional diagnostic methods to more innovative approaches. These improvements have deepened our understanding of platelet-related disorders and ushered in personalized treatment options. Despite challenges such as interpretation of complex data and the costs of new technologies, the potential for artificial-intelligence integration and the creation of wearable monitoring devices offers exciting future possibilities. This review underscores how these technological advances have enhanced the landscape of precision medicine and provided better diagnostic and treatment options for platelet-function disorders.

Keywords: clotting; hemostasis; platelet aggregation; platelet function test; point-of-care testing.

Figure 3

Innovative methods for assessing hemostasis and platelet function test. (a) Biomimetic microfluidic device for monitoring functionality of mimicking various vascular shear rate. Adapted with permission [94], copyright 2016, Springer Nature. (b) A layered microfluidic system using collagen to capture microclot. Adapted with permission [99], copyright 2019, Springer Nature. (c) Whole blood over microscale blocks and posts with computational simulations of shear rate. Adapted with permission [100], copyright 2019, Springer Nature. (d) Platelet-function test using speckle pattern monitoring system. Adapted with permission [97], copyright 2019, Springer Nature. (e) Viscosity-based coagulation test using droplet microfluidics and smartphone technology. Adapted with permission [101], copyright 2022, American Chemical Society. (f) Coagulation testing using smartphone vibration to agitate a copper particle in the blood sample. Adapted with permission [102], copyright 2022, Springer Nature.

Figure 4

Advanced diagnostics in platelet function and coagulation disorders. (a) Multicolor flow cytometry using clinical samples. Adapted with permission [118], copyright 2023, Elsevier. (b) Novel Love-mode surface acoustic wave (SLSAW) sensor. Adapted with permission [119], copyright 2020, American Chemical Society. (c) Assessment of whole blood coagulation using the micro-ultrasonic and adaptive signal-processing algorithm. Adapted with permission [120], copyright 2022, American Chemical Society.

Figure 1

Timeline of developments in advanced platelet function test.

Figure 2

Comparative illustrations of platelet-function testing techniques. (a) VerifyNow test for measuring platelet reactivity; (b) platelet adhesion and aggregation with platelet function analysis (PFA) devices; (c) impedance aggregometry: measuring platelet aggregation through electrical resistance; (d) viscoelastic assessment of coagulation: TEG technologies; (e) platelet activation and population analysis via flow cytometry.