Platelet activation may explain the storage lesion in platelet concentrates

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transfusion Medicine
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Stored platelet dysfunction, known as the storage lesion, is a major challenge in transfusion medicine.
• Increased metabolic activity and lactate accumulation are key contributors to platelet degradation during storage.
• Platelet activation during preparation and handling exacerbates functional and structural changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of platelet activation in the storage lesion of platelet concentrates.
• To evaluate the efficacy of platelet activation inhibitors in preserving platelet function and integrity during storage.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing inhibitors of platelet activation during the preparation and storage of platelet concentrates.
• Assessing platelet metabolic rate, structural integrity, and responsiveness to stimuli.
• Comparing stored platelets with and without activation inhibitors, and with artificial storage media.

Main Results:

• Inhibitors of platelet activation significantly reduce the rate of platelet function and integrity loss.
• Platelet metabolic rate is decreased, and lactate accumulation is reduced with activation inhibitors.
• Surface glycoprotein Ib levels are better preserved in the presence of activation inhibitors.
• Platelets stored for up to 20 days with inhibitors and artificial media remain metabolically and structurally intact and responsive.

Conclusions:

• Platelet activation is a primary driver of the storage lesion in platelet concentrates.
• Inhibiting platelet activation is a promising strategy to improve the quality and extend the storage viability of platelets.
• Combined use of activation inhibitors and artificial storage media can maintain platelet quality for extended periods.