Membrane phase transition of intact human platelets: correlation with cold-induced activation

Using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), we have determined the phase transition temperature (Tm) of lipids in intact human platelets and have shown that it occurs between 15 and 18 degrees C, the temperature at which cold activation of platelets has previously been reported (Zucker and Borrelli, 1954, Blood, 28:602-608; White and Krivit, 1967, Blood, 30:625-635). The temperature at which the platelets pass through Tm is highly correlated with initial platelet shape change. However, shape change continues after the cells have passed through the phase transition. Cold-induced activation has previously prevented long-term storage of platelets at 4 degrees C. Antifreeze glycoproteins (AFGPs) isolated from polar fishes previously have been used to prevent ice crystal growth during freezing of tissues as well as leakage of solutes from liposomes as they were chilled through their Tm. We sought to determine if these AFGPs were able to stabilize platelets for long-term storage at 4 degrees C. Incubating platelets with antifreeze glycoproteins during long-term storage and rapid rewarming to 37 degrees C abrogated granule secretion associated with cold activation in a dose-dependent manner. This work suggests that AFGPs may be a possible solute for use in long-term low temperature storage of platelets.