Platelet storage lesion in second-generation containers: correlation with platelet ATP levels

Area of Science:

• Transfusion Medicine
• Hematology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Platelet concentrates (PC) are crucial for treating bleeding disorders.
• Understanding storage lesions is vital for optimizing transfusion efficacy.
• Second-generation containers are commonly used for PC storage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate platelet lesion development in PC stored up to 14 days.
• To evaluate the impact of different storage media and pH stabilization on PC quality.
• To characterize in vitro changes in platelet morphology and function during storage.

Main Methods:

• PC stored in CPD-plasma (control) and modified media.
• Inclusion of pH stabilization with sodium bicarbonate.
• Assessment of platelet shape, count, lactate dehydrogenase, oxygen consumption, ATP levels, ADP-induced shape change, and hypotonic shock response.
• Evaluation over storage periods up to 14 days.

Main Results:

• CPD-plasma storage led to progressive loss of discoid shape, aggregation, fragmentation, and decreased platelet count by day 14.
• Key functional parameters (oxygen consumption, ATP, shape change, hypotonic shock response) showed a 50% decrease (t1/2) at 7-9 days, correlating with pH fall.
• pH stabilization or plasma-free storage slowed lesion development but did not prevent eventual in vitro lesions.

Conclusions:

• Platelet storage in second-generation containers leads to significant in vitro lesions, impacting platelet viability and function.
• While pH and storage media influence the rate of lesion development, they do not eliminate them within 14 days.
• Further research is needed to develop improved methods for preserving platelet quality during storage.