Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2026
08:14
Characterization of Leukocyte-platelet Rich Fibrin, A Novel Biomaterial
Published on: September 29, 2015
Platelet storage. Effects of leachable materials on morphology and function
Transfusion
|July 1, 1986
Summary
New polyolefin plastic bags significantly reduce leachable di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) for extended platelet storage. This minimizes harmful plasticizer exposure compared to older PVC bags, improving platelet quality.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Hematology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Platelet storage traditionally uses polyvinyl chloride (PVC) bags, which can leach plasticizers like di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP).
- Extended platelet storage is crucial for transfusion medicine, necessitating safer storage materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the leaching of compounds from a novel polyolefin plastic (PL 732) bag designed for extended platelet storage.
- To quantify the levels of leached di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and assess its impact on platelet morphology and membrane binding.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of platelet concentrate supernatant using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), mass spectrometry (MS), and gas-liquid chromatography (GLC).
- Comparison of DEHP levels in PL 732 bags versus traditional polyvinyl chloride (PL 146) bags.
- Assessment of platelet morphology and DEHP binding to platelet membranes using radiolabeled DEHP.
Main Results:
- A leachable compound, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), was detected, migrating from PVC sterilization packaging into the PL 732 bag.
- DEHP levels were 12-fold lower in PL 732 bags compared to PL 146 bags.
- Platelets stored in PL 732 bags showed some shape changes at low DEHP concentrations, but this was not directly dose-dependent and occurred less than in PL 146 bags. DEHP binding to platelet membranes was proportional to supernatant concentration.
Conclusions:
- Polyolefin plastic (PL 732) bags offer a safer alternative for platelet storage, significantly reducing DEHP exposure.
- While DEHP can bind to platelet membranes, the observed morphological changes were not solely attributed to DEHP concentration.
- Further research may be needed to fully elucidate DEHP's interaction with platelet membranes and its clinical implications.
Related Concept Videos
01:18Structure and Function of Platelets
The cell fragments known as platelets are disc-shaped, with an average diameter of about 3 μm and a thickness of roughly 1 μm. They play a crucial role in the body's vascular clotting system, which also involves plasma proteins, blood cells, and blood vessel tissues.
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 platelets, with...
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 platelets, with...
01:22Formation of the Platelet Plug
The platelet phase, the second stage of hemostasis, commences around 15-20 seconds after an injury. It follows and overlaps with the vascular phase, during which blood vessels constrict to minimize blood loss.
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...
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...