Platelet aggregation and Flow cytometry analysis of canine platelet rich plasma

The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the suitability of flow cytometry for studying platelet function and aggregation in dogs. To that purpose, the platelet antigen P-selectin (CD62P) expression was monitored by flow cytometry and platelet aggregation by a turbidimetric method during an activation process induced by increased adenosine-5’-diphosphate (ADP) doses (2.5, 7.5 and 10 μM). Platelet aggregation was ADP dose-dependent and the flow cytometry analysis revealed a significantly increase of platelet membrane P selectin expression according to time and to ADP doses reaching a threshold around 180-300 seconds for the 2 higher ADP doses (7.5 and 10 μM). In parallel, activated and micro-aggregated platelet populations were enhanced as revealed by morphological criteria. Consequently, the flow cytometry analysis allows detection of the early stages of platelet aggregation in dogs.