Structural Alterations in Fibrin Clots with Dextran

Abstract

SummaryTheoretical reasoning underlying physicochemical measurement of opacity ratio of fibrin clots, i. e. the ratio of turbidity at 350 nm and 608 nm is given. From such considerations it is deduced that opacity ratio may be used to characterise clot morphology : opacity ratio will be inversely related to the size of inhomogeneities formed in the clot.A highly reproducible technique for the measurement of opacity ratio is described. Additions of small amounts of dextran to fibrinogen solution consistently decrease the opacity ratio of clots made subsequently. This decrease which indicates that the inhomogeneities forming in such fibrin clots are larger than control, is independent of the molecular weight of dextran, but is related to the logarithm of the final dextran concentration. Both thrombin and fibrinogen concentrations are also determinants of opacity ratio. Electron microscopy of fibrin clots made in the presence of dextran confirms that such clots have an altered morphology. Properties of clots in relationship to their structural morphology are discussed.

The Effect of Dextran on the Platelet Distribution and Lysability of <i>ex vivo </i>Thrombi in Dogs

“…A decrease of factor XIII impairs the a-chain cross-linking with increased lysabil ity of the clot as a result (8). Another possible explanation for the increased lysability of thrombi after dextran infusion is a direct effect of dextran on the gross morphology of fibrin, as demonstrated in vitro by Tangen et al (17) and Muzaffar et al (13). However, we have not been able to demonstrate such morphologic changes in fibrin after the infusion of the moderately large dose of dextran as given in these experiments.…”

Semisoluble aminated glucan: Long-term efficacy against an intraperitonealE. coli challenge and its effect on formation of abdominal adhesions

“…SAG might have several of these properies, e.g., both SAG and dextran are high-molecular weight carbohydrates (glycans) and thus have some resemblances. Dextran alters the fibrin structure making it more susceptible to plasmin digestion [17,25]. Dextran has also been reported to act as a lubricant [7], partly by inducing a colloid osmotic mobilization of fluid into the abdominal cavity [10].…”

Use of Dextran to Prevent Intraperitoneal Adhesions Caused by Maize Starch Powder

“…Dextran is known to alter the fibrin structure and make it more susceptible to plasmin digestion [15,16,25]. The fibrin net formed in the presence of dextran is coarse.…”