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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
Microfluidics in Assessing Platelet Function
Published on: November 8, 2024
New methods showing in vitro changes of platelets
G Rock1, M Freedman, C Hamilton
1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ont., Canada. cag@ca.inter.net
Introduction:
In vitro methods for assessing stored platelets are time consuming and variably correlate with in vivo survival. We used the ADVIA 120 and the Thromboelastogram (TEG) to assess changes during storage to determine a correlation of the results with those of other commonly used measures.
Methods:
Platelet concentrates were tested at 1 and 5 days of storage. In vitro test included platelet count, aggregation response, the hypotonic shock response (HSR), The Kunicki morphology score (KMS) and platelet activation using CD62. The ADVIA was used to measure the platelet density and the granule content. The TEG measured the kinetics of clot formation.
Results:
The platelet count and HRS did not change during storage. Aggregation decreased 50% by day 5. The KMS dropped from 307 at day 2-170. The MPC fell below 200g/l. There was slight platelet activation; the rate of clot formation decreased.
Conclusions:
Standard measures of in vitro platelet function indicated alterations during storage. A MPC of less than 200 corresponded to a Kunicki morphology score of less than 200. The TEG results correlated will with the KMS. These measurements may prove useful in predicting platelet survival and recovery.
