Journal Article Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Ppublish 21 citations
PubMed: 33631785 DOI: 10.1097/MOH.0000000000000639
Biophysical and rheological biomarkers of red blood cell physiology and pathophysiology.
Curr Opin Hematol 28(3):138-149
Authors: Umut A Gurkan
Affiliations
- Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department, Case Western Reserve University.
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Case Western Reserve University.
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW
This review summarizes the significant biophysical and rheological aspects of red blood cell physiology and pathophysiology in relation to recent advances in microfluidic biomarker assays and emerging targeted or curative intent therapies.
RECENT FINDINGS
Alterations in red cell biophysical properties and blood rheology have been associated with numerous hematologic and circulatory disorders. Recent advances in biomarker assays enable effective assessment of these biophysical and rheological properties in normoxia or physiological hypoxia in a clinically meaningful way. There are emerging targeted or curative therapies that aim to improve red cell pathophysiology, especially in the context of inherited hemoglobin disorders, such as sickle cell disease.
SUMMARY
Red cell pathophysiology can be therapeutically targeted and the improvements in membrane and cellular biophysics and blood rheology can now be feasibly assessed via new microfluidic biomarker assays. Recent advances provide a new hope and novel treatment options for major red cell ailments, including inherited hemoglobin disorders, membrane disorders, and other pathologies of the red cell, such as malaria.
MeSH
Cell Physiological Phenomena, Erythrocytes, Physiology, Biomarkers, Membranes, Blood Cells, Therapeutics, Rheology, Microfluidics, Hemoglobins
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