Suppression of Shear-Induced Hemolysis by Three Plasma Proteins

Abstract

Hemolysis was induced in erythrocyte [human] suspensions by shearing between rotating metal disks 10 cm in diameter at 325 rev/min; stresses did not exceed 100 dynes/cm2. The role of proteins (.gamma.-globulin, G; albumin, A; fibrinogen, F) in the environment was tested in 2 ways. First, disks were precoated by exposure to protein solutions of physiologic concentration and then used to hemolyze the suspensions. Test carried to 104 s showed protective effects, relative to shearing with virgin disks, with a ranking G > A > F. Second, proteins were dissolved in the suspension media and hemolysis compared to the case without protein. Large suppression of hemolysis was found during storage (G .apprxeq. A > F) but only G offered significant protection against shear.