Friday, December 18, 2009

Fake Platelets To Stem Blood Flow

Artist's impression of blood flow, including red and white blood cells and platelets (shown here in yellow). Synthetic platelets bind to natural platelets at the site of an injury, speeding up the clotting process. Credit: iStockphoto

From Cosmos:

SYDNEY: Scientists have developed artificial platelets to enhance the natural process of blood clotting, reducing the risk of fatal blood loss on the battlefield and in the emergency room.

Platelets are colourless disc-shaped cells which activate the blood clotting process, helping to form 'plugs' which stop blood flowing from cuts and grazes. However, they are sometimes overpowered by serious injury or trauma, which can lead to fatal blood loss.

Read more ....

No comments: