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Updated: Mar 30, 2026
Routine Screening Method for Microparticles in Platelet Transfusions
Published on: January 31, 2018
The role of microparticles in inflammation and transfusion: A concise review
Fabrice Cognasse1, Hind Hamzeh-Cognasse2, Sandrine Laradi1
1Etablissement Français du Sang Auvergne-Loire, Saint-Etienne, France; Université de Lyon, GIMAP-EA3064, Saint Etienne, France.
Abstract:
Microparticles are small membrane-bound vesicles found in body fluids including peripheral blood. Microparticles are an intrinsic part of blood labile products delivered to transfused patients and have active roles in inflammation. They are delimited by a lipid bilayer composed mainly of phospholipids, cholesterol, membrane-associated proteins, intracellular components such as metabolic enzymes, proteins-involved in adhesion and fusion, cytoskeletal-associated proteins, surface glycoproteins and/or chemokines. Microparticles can trigger a pro-inflammatory message to neighbouring or target cells. Microparticles originating from platelets, leukocytes, erythrocytes, and endothelial cells are associated with a variety of pathophysiological conditions. This review summarises the role of Microparticles in modulating inflammation.
Insights
Microparticles, small vesicles in blood, actively promote inflammation. Originating from various blood cells, they contribute to diverse disease states by signaling inflammatory responses.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Microparticles are lipid bilayer-enclosed vesicles present in bodily fluids, notably peripheral blood.
- They are integral components of blood products and play active roles in inflammatory processes.
- Microparticles contain various cellular components, including proteins, enzymes, and chemokines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the multifaceted role of microparticles in the modulation of inflammation.
- To highlight the pro-inflammatory signaling capabilities of microparticles.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating microparticle function.
- Analysis of microparticle composition and cellular origins.
- Examination of microparticle-mediated cellular communication pathways.
Main Results:
- Microparticles from platelets, leukocytes, erythrocytes, and endothelial cells are implicated in numerous pathophysiological conditions.
- These vesicles can initiate pro-inflammatory signaling cascades in adjacent or target cells.
- Their composition dictates their specific functional roles in inflammation.
Conclusions:
- Microparticles are significant mediators of inflammation.
- Understanding microparticle roles is crucial for comprehending inflammatory diseases.
- Further research into microparticle biology may reveal therapeutic targets.
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