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Hemorheology, Hemodynamics & Artificial Blood Laboratory
The laboratory specializes in the experimental and theoretical investigations of mechanical blood trauma and the relationship between blood trauma and hemorheological changes, which occur in blood contacting artificial organs such as heart-assist devices, blood oxygenators, dialysis machines and peripheral access systems. The laboratory provides services on testing of potential blood trauma in blood-contacting artificial organs and devices. We are also using rheometry to study the changes in blood mechanical properties due to shear stress exposure and in several diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Contact Information: Fax: 412-624-5363 Email: kamenevamv@upmc.edu Updated: October 26, 2015 |
Dr. Marina V. Kameneva’s Hemorheology, Hemodynamics and Artificial Blood Research Laboratory is working on a variety of projects ranging from the testing of new medical devices to performing theoretical and experimental research related to the development of next generation artificial organs including artificial blood. One of the major laboratory projects is an investigation of a novel method for the enhancement of blood flow by modification of the fluidity of blood via the addition of minute concentrations of special blood soluble, high molecular weight polymers or so-called drag-reducing polymers (DRPs). The laboratory performs studies of the effects of DRPs on blood circulation and, especially, investigations of the basic mechanisms (rheological and others) underlying this extraordinary intravascular drag-reducing phenomenon. In our previous in vitro studies, we demonstrated that the blood-soluble DRPs eliminate or reduce flow separation at vessel bifurcations, constrictions, expansions, and other local changes in vessel geometry hence reducing resistance to flow and thereby enhancing flow in these vessels. This phenomenon, in turn, causes a significant decrease in the blood pressure drop that occurs in the resistive vessels (small arteries and arterioles), thus increasing precapillary pressure and microcirculatory flow. Recently, we have shown in vivo the potential applications of these polymers in reducing the lethality of hemorrhagic shock. We are working on translation of these findings into a clinically available product for the treatment of hemorrhagic shock in soldiers and civilians suffering from severe trauma and bleeding. We believe that the intravascular drag-reducing phenomenon can be applied to treat many other pathological conditions and diseases involving hypoperfusion and hypoxia.