Quantification of Human Platelet Clearance In Vitro and in Xenotransfused Animals

We have utilized macrophage-dependent and hepatocyte-dependent phagocytosis assays as well as in vivo xenotransfusion experiments to determine the survival and rate of clearance of stored platelets in several conditions that include cold storage and the use of a novel preservative solution. Our novel preservative solution targets RHOA, a key signaling GTPase that controls refrigeration-induced storage damage. Using these approaches, the outcome of fluorescently labeled human platelets can be analyzed for their potential to be cleared by integrin-dependent phagocytes, lectin-binding domain-dependent hepatocytes or in circulation of thrombocytopenic, innate- and adaptive immunity-deficient animals.