Platelet Protocols. Research And Clinical Laboratory Procedures

Scientists have made great strides in recent years in understanding what stimulates platelets to form a thrombus at the molecular level and in developing drugs to inhibit platelet action. Their work has a direct effect on millions of people who deal with cardiovascular disease, strokes, surgery, physical trauma, and other conditions. While references to platelet function have been included in some large texts, there has not been an up-to-date reference manual that researchers and clinicians can use in their daily work until now. Platelet Protocols fills the need for a straightforward laboratory manual on current procedures for evaluating and analyzing platelet function and abnormalities. It is an easy-to-read, comprehensive resource that can be kept at the bench and referred to frequently by scientists, clinicians, and laboratory staff involved in platelet-related areas. Topics range from the basics of anticoagulants to the latest developments in platelet testing. Platelet Protocols includes: * A basic introduction to platelet anatomy and physiology * Testing procedures for new anti-platelet therapies * Descriptions of platelet function abnormalities * Therapeutic approaches to inhibition of platelet function * Step-by-step methodologies with clear explanations * Helpful appendixes of recipes, instructions, sources of reagents, and more