The research achievement is published in the Nature Communications.

A research team led by Professor Guo Yan from the School of Life Science and Technology at Xi'an Jiaotong University (XJTU) has identified potential biomarkers and mechanisms for post-traumatic deep vein thrombosis (pt-DVT).

Pt-DVT is a major cause of post-injury complications and death, significantly increasing the risk of life-threatening pulmonary embolism. With an incidence rate as high as 40 percent, pt-DVT poses a severe public health threat in China.

Currently, pt-DVT diagnosis relies on D-dimer testing and ultrasound imaging, both of which have limitations. Various factors can affect D-dimer levels, and ultrasound can only detect thrombosis at later stages. Therefore, identifying biomarkers for pt-DVT is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment planning.

Professor Guo's team analyzed blood samples from 680 patients with and without pt-DVT, identifying potential biomarkers and regulatory mechanisms. Through integrated metabolomic and proteomic analyses, they identified 28 metabolites and two clinical parameter clusters linked to pt-DVT, developing a predictive model based on nine metabolites.

The study, Integrated Landscape of Plasma Metabolism and Proteome of Patients with Post-Traumatic Deep Vein Thrombosis, was published in the Nature Communications on Sept 7, co-authored by Professor Guo and Xi'an Honghui Hospital's Vice-President Zhang Kun.