Development of platelet function assays
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Promoting access to haemostasis testing in resource-scarce and emergency settings using a paper-based lateral flow diagnostic screening panel for coagulation disorders: Development of platelet function assays
IRAS ID
263472
Contact name
Anthony Killard
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of the West of England
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
N/A, N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
The project relating to this ethical application is a part of a larger project which relates to the development of diagnostic devices for assessing bleeding or thrombotic dysfunction using very low cost and sustainable, paper-based lateral flow assay devices. \n\nWithin this, one group of activities relates to the development of novel assays for assessing platelet function. Typically, platelet dysfunction is determined either using platelet counting techniques on a full blood count analyser (quantitative), or through specialised functional testing, most notably platelet aggregometry (qualitative). In this latter technique, platelets are activated through exposure to agonists such as ADP, epinephrine, collagen and others, and their rate and extent of aggregation is monitored, and can be used to identify various functional abnormalities such as Bernard-Soulier syndrome, Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia, as well as differentiating the presence of Von Willebrand’s Disease (VWD). \n\nThe proposed research will investigate the development of novel assays based on paper lateral flow devices that allow screening of quantitative and qualitative dysfunction and VWD in a small number of assays. Platelets are extremely unstable materials, and are very challenging to work with. Typically, platelets must be derived from a healthy donor, and so must be used within 2 to 4 hours of donation, after which time, they lose activity and no longer represent their native state. This presents a particular challenge for platelet-based research, requiring a small, but regular source of normal platelet donation to facilitate research activity. For the pre-clinical assay development involved in this research, a source of healthy donor platelets is adequate, as both quantitative and qualitative dysfunction can be simulated through dilution and the introduction of antagonists, respectively. Sources of dysfunctional donor platelets is not required.
REC name
South Central - Oxford B Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
20/SC/0393
Date of REC Opinion
24 Nov 2020
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion