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Updated: Sep 1, 2025
Routine Screening Method for Microparticles in Platelet Transfusions
Published on: January 31, 2018
Platelet- and endothelial-derived microparticles in the context of different antiphospholipid antibody profiles
Chunyan Cheng1, Elisa Bison1, Elena Pontara1
1Thrombosis Research Laboratory, Department of Cardio-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
Objectives:
Studies on microparticles (MPs) in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are sparse and inconclusive. The relation between MPs and different aPL antibody profiles has never been tested. We evaluated the presence of platelet and endothelial microparticles in patients positive for IgG anti-β2-glycoprotein I (aβ2GPI) antibodies according to triple, double and single positive aPL profiles.
Methods:
Megamix (Biocytex) was used to set up the MPs gating according to the datasheet. Markers of Platelet Microparticles (PMPs) were CD41a-PE and annexin-V-FITC that was used to determine phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure. CD144-FITC was used as a marker of Endothelial Microparticles (EMPs).
Results:
The number of total MPs and EMPs was significantly higher in triple positive groups with respect to single positive group and showed a significant correlation with IgG aβ2GPI titers. The number PMPs was the lowest in triple positive group and inversely correlated with IgG aβ2GPI titers.
Conclusions:
Elevated levels of total MPs and EMPs suggest a state of vascular activation in IgG aβ2GPI positive individuals according to the number of positive tests. PMPs may be fast cleared from circulation in high risk triple positive patients.
Insights
Elevated microparticles (MPs) and endothelial MPs (EMPs) indicate vascular activation in IgG anti-β2-glycoprotein I (aβ2GPI) positive patients. Platelet MPs (PMPs) were lower in triple-positive individuals, suggesting rapid clearance.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Microparticles (MPs) are cell-derived vesicles implicated in thrombosis and inflammation.
- Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are associated with an increased risk of thrombotic events.
- Limited data exist on the specific relationship between different aPL profiles and MP levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and levels of platelet microparticles (PMPs) and endothelial microparticles (EMPs) in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL).
- To correlate MP levels with different aPL antibody profiles, specifically IgG anti-β2-glycoprotein I (aβ2GPI) positivity (triple, double, and single).
Main Methods:
- Flow cytometry was used to quantify MPs.
- Platelet Microparticle (PMP) markers included CD41a-PE and annexin-V-FITC (for phosphatidylserine exposure).
- Endothelial Microparticle (EMP) marker was CD144-FITC.
Main Results:
- Total MPs and EMPs were significantly higher in triple-positive aPL patients compared to single-positive patients.
- Elevated total MPs and EMPs correlated positively with IgG aβ2GPI titers.
- PMP levels were lowest in triple-positive patients and inversely correlated with IgG aβ2GPI titers.
Conclusions:
- Increased total MPs and EMPs suggest vascular activation in individuals with IgG aβ2GPI antibodies, particularly in those with multiple positive tests.
- Lower PMP levels in high-risk triple-positive patients may indicate rapid clearance from circulation.
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