Human platelet aggregation by mixed cryoglobulins

Acta Haematol. 1975;54(1):36-45. doi: 10.1159/000208049.

Abstract

Glomerulonephritis in idiopatic mixed cryoglobulinemia represents perhaps a glomerular damage by immune complexes. In this study, a sigmoidal-like curve was obtained after addition of 13 different mixed cryoglobulins to both autologous and isologous platelet-rich plasma, tested in platelet aggregometer. The lag phase of the curve corresponds to platelet phagocytosis of cryoglobulin-binding ferritin, as shown in electron microscopy and the optical density decrease phase corresponds to the aggregation of platelets that shows the same ultrastructural characteristics of ADP-induced platelet aggregation. This platelet aggregation is inhibited by different drugs. Intraglomerular platelet aggregation by cryoglobulins might play a key role in determining the glomerular damage in cryoglobulinemia by the release of nucleotides and vasoactive amines.

MeSH terms

  • Blood Platelets / ultrastructure
  • Calcium
  • Cryoglobulins / pharmacology*
  • Depression, Chemical
  • Ferritins
  • Heparin / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Platelet Adhesiveness / drug effects*
  • Platelet Aggregation / drug effects*

Substances

  • Cryoglobulins
  • Heparin
  • Ferritins
  • Calcium