Computer model tests blood flow, clotting

PROVIDENCE, R.I., Nov. 2 (UPI) -- A U.S. scientist has created a computer model that's allowing him to test blood flow and clotting concepts he proposed more than 30 years ago.

Peter Richardson, a professor of engineering and physiology at Brown University, joined with mathematics colleagues Igor Pivkin and George Karniadakis to develop a model that integrates fluid dynamics with platelet biochemistry.

The researchers say their model might provide new insights into the treatment and prevention of strokes and heart attacks by helping evaluate candidate drugs aimed at preventing blood clots -- also a major cause of organ transplant rejection.

The model is generalized since it doesn't require many specific details and doesn't need to specifically calculate concentration or diffusion of the activation factor, yet it produces remarkably accurate results.

During the next few years, the team will refine the model by incorporating molecular and sub-cellular details, while enhancing the representation of fluid dynamics and interactions between platelets and other cells. Richardson says he also has physiological experiments planned that will allow more rigorous testing and refinement of the model.

The model is described in the online edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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