An Overview on Platelet-derived Microparticles in Platelet Concentrates: blood collection, method preparation and storage

Preparations of platelet concentrates (PCs) that are stored under blood bank conditions and used for transfusion purposes, appear to be enriched in platelet derived-microparticles (PMPs) with high coagulant activity that may change platelet efficacy and safety issues. High shear stress could cause shedding of PMPs from the platelet plasma membrane, platelet aggregation, and activation of the coagulation cascade by increasing the catalytic phospholipid surface. These stresses may be prompted by processing and storage of blood and platelet rich plasma through various variables that has been fully described in this review. Depending on different rates of shear stress during processing and storage of PC, different quantities of MPs might be shed from platelets. On the other hand, the therapeutic effect of high levels of PMPs in PC has been reported for some patients. By using more sensitive and standardized methods for PMP measurement and change of platelet preparation process, further studies are required to monitor PMP generation during blood collection, processing and storage of PC to improve quality of PC and also in recipient’s reactions to transfusion.