Platelet integrin-dependent fibrillogenesis of fibronectin: Impact of shear stress

Introduction: Soluble plasma fibronectin (Fn) with its inactive compact structure requires unfolding to assemble into active fibrils. Fibril formation of Fn is a cell-mediated process. Less is known about the contribution of biomechanical forces on the fibrillogenesis of Fn. The aim of this study was to investigate conformational changes of Fn, as induced by platelet integrins and/or shear rates simulating venous or arterial flow conditions. Methods: Human plasma Fn, in the presence or absence of washed platelets, was added to plates pre-coated with Fn. Subsequently, the solutions were exposed to shear using a c…