Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026

Routine Screening Method for Microparticles in Platelet Transfusions
Published on: January 31, 2018
Immunomodulatory mediators in platelet transfusion reactions
1Department of Medicine, Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, NY 14642, USA. Craig_Morrell@URMC.Rochester.edu
Platelets initiate immune responses and can cause adverse inflammatory reactions after transfusion. This review explores the platelet storage lesion and mediators contributing to transfusion reactions.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Biology
- Immunology
- Transfusion Medicine
Background:
- Platelets play a crucial role in vascular biology and immune responses.
- Platelet transfusions can lead to adverse inflammatory outcomes like fever and respiratory distress.
- Immune mediators released during storage are implicated in these transfusion reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on the platelet storage lesion.
- To identify potential mediators of platelet transfusion reactions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent scientific knowledge.
Main Results:
- Platelet activation and mediator release during storage contribute to transfusion reactions.
- Understanding the platelet storage lesion is key to mitigating adverse effects.
Conclusions:
- Further research into platelet storage and mediator profiles is needed.
- Strategies to minimize the platelet storage lesion could improve transfusion safety.
Related Concept Videos
Formation of the Platelet Plug
As the injured blood vessel contracts, endothelial cells undergo contraction, revealing collagen fibers in the basement membrane and underlying connective tissue. Furthermore, the plasma membrane of endothelial cells becomes adhesive, preparing the site for platelet adhesion. Platelets...
Blood Transfusion and Agglutination
History
The history of blood transfusion dates back to the 17th century, when early attempts were made in animals. In 1818 James Blundell, a British doctor, performed the first successful human blood transfusion. Later in 1900, Karl...
Structure and Function of Platelets
Platelets are continually replenished, circulating in the bloodstream for 9-12 days before being removed by phagocytes, primarily in the spleen. A microliter of circulating blood contains between 150,000 and 450,000 platelets, with...
Introduction to Hemostasis
The three phases of hemostasis involve many clotting factors present in plasma and several substances released by platelets and injured tissue cells. It is a fast, localized, and...
Antiplatelet Drugs: Prostaglandin Synthesis, P2Y12 and Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibitors
Prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors, exemplified by the widely known aspirin, wield their power by irreversibly acetylating...
Blood Transfusion
Blood Transfusion Overview
A blood transfusion is a medical procedure used to replace blood lost due to injury, surgery, or to treat conditions such as anemia or cancer. During a transfusion, donor blood is...

