Antithrombotic functions of small molecule-capped gold nanoparticles.

Here we report the antithrombotic functions of pyrimidinethiol-capped gold nanoparticles (Au_DAPT NPs). They can prolong coagulation parameters when injected intravenously in normal mice. Applied in two typical thrombosis models, mice tail thrombosis and pulmonary thromboembolism, gold NPs can inhibit both thrombosis and improve the survival rates of mice tremendously, without increasing the bleeding risk. The anticoagulant mechanisms include inhibiting the platelet aggregation as well as interfering with thrombin and fibrin generation.