Mechanics of Zn modified fibrin network

POSTER

Abstract

Fibrin are the main constituent during the hemostasis due to its unique mechanical properties resulting from its hierarchy structure, malfunction of fibrin can lead to diseases such as thrombosis. Here we show Zn can tune the fibrin network and its mechanical properties. In the presence of Zn2+, fibrin protofibrils form huge fiber bundles which are intrinsic loosely coupled. By further comparing with theoretical model, we show that under low stress, the mechanical properties of Zn modified fibrin network are contributed by the thermal fluctuation of the network; at high stress, the mechanical properties are contributed by single protofibril mechanics.

Presenters

  • JING XIA

    School of engineering and applied science, Harvard University

Authors

  • JING XIA

    School of engineering and applied science, Harvard University

  • Fred C. MacKintosh

    Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Rice University, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, rice university, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Rice University

  • Liheng Cai

    Materials Science and Engineering and Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Materials Science and Engineering, university of virginia, Department of Physics & SEAS, Harvard University

  • Huayin Wu

    School of engineering and applied science, Harvard University, Department of Physics & SEAS, Harvard University

  • David A Weitz

    Physics and Applied Physics, Harvard University, Harvard University, School of engineering and applied science, Harvard University, Department of Physics & SEAS, Harvard University