Multiscale computational modeling for assessing shear-induced bleeding risk in blood contacting medical devices

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute awarded Lawrence Technological University $444,589 on July 10, 2026, under the Cardiovascular Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.837) to develop multiscale computational modeling for assessing shear-induced bleeding risk in blood-contacting medical devices.

The research addresses device-induced complications in blood-contacting medical devices used to manage and treat heart conditions. The project develops physics-based computational models to understand how these devices degrade von Willebrand factor and cause platelet dysfunction, revealing the correlation between device geometry and these blood-related alterations. The recipient will use these models to guide the design and optimization of a new blood-contacting medical device with reduced bleeding risk. The work encompasses three aims: developing multiscale models of von Willebrand factor degradation and platelet receptor shedding mechanisms; investigating device-induced variations in von Willebrand factor and platelet receptors to identify key geometric parameters influencing these changes; and leveraging the resulting models to support optimization of a new blood-contacting medical device with enhanced hemocompatibility.

The period of performance runs from July 10, 2026, through June 30, 2029. Work is performed at Lawrence Technological University in Southfield, Michigan. The award is structured as a Project Grant, the standard assistance type for this NHLBI program.

Abstract

Blood-contacting medical devices (bcmds) play a crucial role in managing and treating various heart conditions, ranging from offering temporary support to fully replacing natural hearts. However, despite their essential contributions to clinical care, these devices are associated with serious and potentially life-threatening complications, such as bleeding. Device-induced degradation of VON willebrand factor (VWF) and platelet dysfunction are widely believed to contribute to this risk. Yet, the specific variations in VWF and platelet responses within bcmds-and their relationship to device characteristics-remain poorly understood and are difficult to evaluate clinically. To resolve these issues, the general goal of the proposed research is to study and understand device-induced variations in VWF and platelet responses. To this end, we aim to develop a computational model that reveals the correlation between bcmds and the associated VWF/platelet alterations, and to apply this model to guide the design and optimization of a new bcmd with reduced bleeding risk. This objective will be accomplished through three specific aims: (1) to develop a multiscale physics-based VWF and platelet models revealing the mechanisms of the VWF degradation and platelet receptor shedding; (2) to investigate device-induced variations in VWF and platelet receptors and to identify key geometric parameters of bcmds that influence these changes; and (3) to leverage the model developed in aim 1 and the findings from aim 2 to support the optimization of a new bcmd with enhanced hemocompatibility. The successful completion of this project will provide a comprehensive and clinically relevant understanding of VWF and platelet variations within bcmds, ultimately contributing to safer device designs and improved patient outcomes. Furthermore, this innovative proposal will significantly strengthen the research environment in the department of biomedical engineering at the lawrence technological university by providing our undergraduate students with the opportunity to participate in a funded, multidisciplinary project with great clinical and societal relevance.