Factors associated with aggregate formation in cold-stored platelets

Cold-stored platelets (CSPs) can form aggregates, ultimately rendering them unusable. The causes of these aggregates and how to prevent them are poorly understood. This study aimed to identify potential factors associated with aggregate formation in CSPs stored in plasma for up to 14 days.

We obtained CSPs from 79 unique donors during a clinical trial. We retrospectively analysed aggregate rates among donors of different sexes, ages and blood groups. In a subgroup, samples were also tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for markers of thrombosis and inflammation. Platelets from mice lacking von Willebrand factor (VWF) and human apheresis platelets treated with VWF and caplacizumab were stored and assessed for platelet count and aggregate formation by visual inspection and flow cytometry.

Forty-five (57%) units developed aggregates, and 34 (43%) did not. Units with aggregates had significantly lower soluble thrombomodulin levels and higher VWF levels approaching significance. In a multivariate analysis, platelets from female donors and donors with ABO type A were significantly more likely to form aggregates than those from male donors and donors with ABO type O, respectively. In the oldest donor cohort, units with aggregates were significantly less common than those without. Interfering with VWF levels and VWF function during storage did not reliably cause or prevent aggregates.

Donor sex, age, ABO type and thrombomodulin were significantly associated with aggregate formation or prevention.