Effect of storage on platelet release and aggregation responses

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transfusion Medicine
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Platelet storage conditions significantly impact their function and viability.
• Assessing platelet function during storage is crucial for transfusion safety and efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of different storage temperatures (room temperature vs. 4°C) on platelet aggregation and release responses.
• To evaluate beta-thromboglobulin (BTG) release as a marker for platelet activation and function during storage.
• To compare spontaneous BTG release under various storage conditions.

Main Methods:

• Platelets were stored at room temperature and 4°C.
• Adenosine diphosphate (ADP) was used as an activating agent to assess aggregation and BTG release.
• Spontaneous BTG release was measured during storage.
• Platelet function was assessed after varying storage durations.

Main Results:

• Platelets stored at room temperature retained aggregation and BTG release capacity for up to 3 days.
• Platelets stored at 4°C showed normal aggregation after 1 day but impaired BTG release.
• Spontaneous BTG loss was lower in platelets stored at room temperature compared to 4°C after 4-6 days.
• Platelets in whole blood stored at 4°C exhibited lower spontaneous BTG release than platelet concentrates.

Conclusions:

• Storage temperature critically affects platelet function, with room temperature being more favorable for maintaining aggregation and release responses.
• ADP-stimulated BTG release serves as a sensitive indicator of platelet function during storage.
• Storage of platelets as whole blood at 4°C may reduce spontaneous activation compared to platelet concentrates.