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Updated: Jan 10, 2026
09:13
Turbidimetry on Human Washed Platelets: The Effect of the Pannexin1-inhibitor Brilliant Blue FCF on Collagen-induced Aggregation
Published on: April 6, 2017
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Platelet components with persistent aggregates are more activated, which do not change following pre-transfusion
Denese C Marks1,2, Marc Cloutier3, Fabrice Cognasse4
1Research and Development, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Transfusion
|November 29, 2025
Summary
Platelet components with aggregates are more activated and should be discarded if numerous. However, components with fewer, smaller aggregates may be retained for transfusion.
Area of Science:
- Transfusion Medicine
- Hematology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Platelet components (PCs) with persistent aggregates are often discarded.
- Limited research exists on the characteristics of PCs containing aggregates.
- This study investigated aggregate formation in PCs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if PCs with aggregates are more activated.
- To identify donor attributes influencing aggregate formation.
- To assess processing methods affecting aggregate formation.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter study analyzed 147 apheresis PCs with aggregates and 65 controls.
- PCs were scored for aggregate size and number.
- Platelet activation markers, metabolism, function, and donor attributes were measured.
Main Results:
- PCs with aggregates showed higher activation markers (CD62P, annexin-V), increased EVs, and altered metabolism (lower glucose, higher lactate).
- Filtration removed aggregates but did not alter the activated phenotype.
- Aggregates were associated with older donors, higher BMI, and prior donations with aggregates.
Conclusions:
- Platelets in PCs with aggregates are significantly activated.
- Filtration does not reverse platelet activation.
- PCs with aggregate scores ≤6 may be suitable for transfusion, while those with higher scores should be discarded.
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