Platelet
aggregometry assays are generally used for the analysis of platelet
function but can also be adapted for further research and therapy
focused applications. This method describes the procedures for the
preparation of human platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-poor plasma
(PPP) for the assessment of human platelet aggregation induced by
agonists such as platelet-activating factor (PAF), thrombin, collagen,
adenosine diphosphate (ADP), arachidonic acid, etc.
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This method can be applied in vitro
to evaluate the aggregatory effects of these agonists and to assess the
antiaggregatory effects of several bioactive antiplatelet agents
(compounds of natural or pharmacological origin) in human PRP.
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This
versatile method can be used in both basic and clinical research for
the assessment of platelet aggregation (a major cardiovascular risk
factor), platelet agonists, and inhibitors, in physiological or
pathological conditions.
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This method can be adapted to assess platelet activity in postprandial and intervention studies ex vivo.
