Morphofunctional Properties of Human Platelets Treated with Silver Nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Science
• Nanotechnology
• Hematology

Background:

• Human platelets play a crucial role in hemostasis and thrombosis.
• Nanoparticles are increasingly used in biomedical applications, necessitating an understanding of their biological interactions.
• The effects of nanosilver particles on platelet function require detailed investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the structural and functional effects of nanosilver particles on human platelets.
• To determine the dose-dependent impact of nanosilver on platelet adhesion, activation, and granule exocytosis.

Main Methods:

• Human platelets were incubated with varying concentrations of silver nanoparticles (0.05–100 μM).
• Platelet adhesion, internal structure, spontaneous activation, and granule exocytosis were assessed.
• The formation of lamellopodia and granule preservation were quantified.

Main Results:

• Nanosilver particles suppressed platelet adhesion in a dose-dependent manner (0.05–5 μM) without altering internal platelet structure.
• Higher nanosilver concentrations (15–100 μM) induced spontaneous platelet activation.
• Nanosilver (1–5 μM) blocked massive degranulation during adhesion but allowed lamellopodia formation, preserving 50-77% of granules.

Conclusions:

• Nanosilver particles exhibit a dual effect on human platelets, inhibiting adhesion at low concentrations and inducing activation at high concentrations.
• Low to moderate concentrations of nanosilver can protect platelet granules from exocytosis, suggesting potential therapeutic applications.
• Understanding these interactions is vital for the safe and effective use of nanosilver in biomedical contexts.