Dynamic Multiparameter Platelet Function Assessment Using a Capacitive Biosensor

Platelets play a fundamental role in blood clotting through a series of regulated responses, including adhesion, spreading, granular secretion, aggregation, and cytoskeletal contraction. However, current assays are limited to partial analysis of platelet function under non-physiological conditions. Thus, an improved assay that reflects the dynamic and multifaceted nature of platelet function in physiological settings is necessary. In this context, a novel approach is introduced to measure several key parameters related to platelet function in a more physiologically relevant ex vivo semi-rigid microenvironment compared to traditional assays. This method utilizes an advanced electrical biosensor, the membrane capacitance sensor (MCS), which provides unique insights into the clotting process through three distinct readouts. These readouts are highly sensitive to variations in platelet count, stimulation intensity, and specific activation pathways. As a purely electrical sensing platform, the MCS demonstrates significant potential as a diagnostic tool for detecting primary hemostatic function disorders, evaluating the efficacy of therapeutic treatments, and advancing the broader understanding of the roles of platelets in hemostasis and thrombosis.