Cryopreserved Platelets in a Non-Toxic DMSO-Free Solution Maintain Hemostatic Function In Vitro.

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Biopreservation
• Cryobiology

Background:

• Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a common cryoprotectant for platelet cryopreservation.
• DMSO is associated with toxicity, necessitating exploration of alternative cryopreservation media.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of saline (NaCl) as a non-toxic alternative to DMSO for platelet cryopreservation.
• To evaluate the impact of DMSO-free cryopreservation on platelet recovery, viability, and hemostatic function.

Main Methods:

• Platelets were cryopreserved at -80°C using either 5-6% DMSO or NaCl (9 mg/mL).
• Paired testing included cell counts, metabolic, phenotypic, and functional analyses (thromboelastometry) pre- and post-thaw.
• Controlled freezing techniques were employed in a subset of experiments.

Main Results:

• DMSO-free cryopreservation resulted in approximately 17% higher platelet recovery but reduced viability.
• Controlled freezing improved platelet viability in DMSO-free units.
• Clot formation time was comparable, though maximum clot firmness was slightly reduced in DMSO-free platelets, which could be optimized by adjusting plasma volume.

Conclusions:

• Platelets can be successfully cryopreserved in saline without DMSO, demonstrating high recovery and preserved hemostatic function.
• Controlled freezing is crucial for optimizing platelet quality and viability when using DMSO-free cryopreservation media.