Purpose: This research aims to study the influences of heparin (HP) on the aggregation of nano calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) and nano calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD) with mean diameter of about 50 nm.
Method: The influences of different concentrations of HP on the mean diameter and Zeta potential of nano COM and nano COD were investigated using a nanoparticle size Zeta potential analyzer.
Results: HP could be adsorbed on the surface of nano COM and nano COD crystals, leading to an increase in the absolute value of Zeta potential on the crystals and an increase in the electrostatic repulsion force between crystals. Consequently, the aggregation of the crystals is reduced and the stability of the system is improved. The strong adsorption ability of HP was closely related to the -OSO3- and -COO- groups contained in the HP molecules. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the coordination of HP with Ca2+ ions of COM and COD crystals.
Conclusion: HP could inhibit the aggregation of nano COM and nano COD crystals and increase their stability in aqueous solution, which is conducive in inhibiting the formation of calcium oxalate stones.