Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 5, 2026

Megakaryocyte Differentiation and Platelet Formation from Human Cord Blood-derived CD34+ Cells
Published on: December 27, 2017
Imaging Platelets and Megakaryocytes by High-Resolution Laser Fluorescence Microscopy
Fred G Pluthero1, Walter H A Kahr2,3,4
1Cell Biology Program, Research Institute, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
This study details methods for high-resolution immunofluorescence microscopy of platelets and megakaryocytes. These protocols enable rapid, detailed imaging of these critical blood cells and their precursors.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Cell Biology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Microscopy is essential for studying platelets and megakaryocytes.
- Existing methods may lack speed or resolution for detailed cellular analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe rapid, high-resolution immunofluorescence microscopy methods for platelets and megakaryocytes.
- To provide validated protocols for cell preparation, staining, imaging, and analysis.
Main Methods:
- Cell isolation and preparation for fluorescence staining.
- Immunofluorescence staining using validated antibodies.
- High-resolution imaging with spinning-disc confocal and structured illumination microscopy.
- Image processing and presentation techniques.
Main Results:
- Successful rapid acquisition of high-resolution images of fixed platelets, megakaryocytes, and megakaryocytic cells.
- Validated list of primary antibodies for specific protein and subcellular structure staining.
Conclusions:
- The described immunofluorescence microscopy methods facilitate rapid, high-resolution imaging of platelets and megakaryocytes.
- These protocols and validated reagents aid in detailed cellular studies.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Super-resolution Fluorescence Microscopy
Confocal Fluorescence Microscopy
Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence Microscopy
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...
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...
Imaging Biological Samples with Optical Microscopy
In optical microscopy, the specimen to be viewed is placed on a glass slide and clipped on the stage...

