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Preparation and Pathogen Inactivation of Double Dose Buffy Coat Platelet Products using the INTERCEPT Blood System
Published on: December 7, 2012
Use of the DiaMed Impact R to test platelet function in stored platelet concentrates
A Morrison1, V S Hornsey, C V Prowse
1Products and Components R&D group, National Science Laboratory, Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, 21 Ellen's Glen Road, Edinburgh, UK. alex.morrison@snbts.csa.scot.nhs.uk
Vox Sanguinis
|August 9, 2007
Summary
This study shows that adding red blood cells to platelet concentrates (PCs) allows for measurable platelet function testing. Optimized conditions were found, indicating PCs can be assessed for platelet adhesion and aggregation.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Biotechnology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- The DiaMed Impact R assesses platelet function using cone and plate technology under physiological flow.
- It quantifies platelet adhesion (SC %) and aggregation (AS) using an image analyzer.
- The study aimed to adapt this assay for platelet concentrates (PCs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if the DiaMed Impact R can assess platelet function in platelet concentrates (PCs).
- To identify optimal assay conditions for testing PCs.
- To evaluate the impact of storage on PC function.
Main Methods:
- Platelet concentrates were mixed with varying ratios of platelet-poor plasma and red blood cells.
- Platelet counts, hematocrit, shear rate, and activation time effects on SC and AS were evaluated.
- Stored PCs were tested on days 2, 5, and 7, with some samples pre-treated at 4°C or 37°C.
Main Results:
- Platelet adhesion was undetectable in PCs with platelet-poor plasma alone.
- Addition of red cells enabled measurable platelet adhesion and aggregation.
- Optimal conditions included a shear rate of 1800/s, 4-min activation, platelet count of 250-400 x 10^6/mL, and 30-40% hematocrit.
- Stored PCs showed decreased SC and AS values over time, with improvement after 1-hour 37°C incubation.
Conclusions:
- Reconstituting PCs with red cells allows for measurable platelet adhesion and aggregation using the DiaMed Impact R.
- Optimal assay conditions were identified for PC testing.
- Platelet function in PCs declines with storage but can be partially restored with short-term warming.

