Microparticle Generation in a Rabbit DIC Model

Abstract

Microparticles (MP) are known to be released form the platelet membrane in association with platelet activation. They are enriched in binding sites for factor Va. MP generation paralleled the expression of catalytic surface for the prothrombinase enzyme complex. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is an acquired disorder in which intravascular coagulation may lead to the formation of microvascular fibrin and hemorrhagic diathesis. We assayed MP by flow cytometric methods in a rabbit DIC model obtained by continuous injection of endotoxin. We found that DIC occured following MP generation, and that there was a correlation between the number of MP and the severity of DIC. These results suggest that MPs play an important role in the occurrence and exacerbation of DIC and may be a useful parameter for the clinical diagnosis of DIC.