Platelet function testing in pigs using the Multiplate® Analyzer

For endovascular research pigs are an established animal model. However, experiences regarding analyses of platelet inhibition in pigs using the Multiplate® Analyzer are limited. The aims of the present study were to investigate if (1) the Multiplate® Analyzer is a suitable method for examination of porcine platelet function using manufacturers’ recommendations for human blood, and (2) platelet inhibition can be induced with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and clopidogrel in pigs reliably, and if (3) non-responders to one of the drug can be detected. Additionally we examined differences in (4) the effectiveness of ASA between oral administration and intravenous application, and (5) between domestic pigs (German Landrace; GL) and miniature pigs (MP). We investigated platelet function of 36 unmedicated pigs (GL n = 28; MP n = 8). In addition, 32 blood samples taken from medicated pigs (GL n = 15; MP n = 17) were analysed. Platelet inhibition was induced in four different ways: (1) 500 mg ASA intravenously (n = 11), (2) 500 mg ASA intravenously and 450 mg clopidogrel orally (n = 5), (3) 250 mg ASA orally (n = 11), (4) 250 mg ASA orally and 75 mg clopidogrel orally (n = 5). Results of the ASPI and ADP test of the Multiplate® Analyzer subtests in unmedicated and medicated pigs were in a comparable range to results known from humans. Application of ASA decreased the mean values of the ASPI test significantly regardless of the application method. Joined administration of ASA and clopidogrel also decreased the mean values of the ADP test significantly. Both, oral and intravenous administrations of ASA as well as oral administration of clopidogrel effectively inhibited platelet function in pigs. One pig did not respond to clopidogrel. We found no differences between domestic and miniature pigs regarding reference values in unmedicated pigs and the effectiveness of ASA and clopidogrel.