Effects of DMSO on platelet functions and P-Selectin expression during storage

Recent studies suggested that the expression of P-Selectin on stored platel ets is related to in vitro activation and loss of viability. We examined th e effects of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) on in vitro function and P-Selectin e xpression of platelet concentrates. Fresh random-donor platelet units (n = 60) were divided into four equal groups. A DMSO-free group was chosen as a control. DMSO (0.5%, 1.0% and 3.0%) was added to the other three groups. Th e samples were stored on a horizontal shaker at room temperature. Biochemic al, morphological and platelet function tests and P-Selectin expression wer e monitored during storage. In all groups, P-Selectin expression, lactate a nd LDH levels, mean platelet volumes and PO2 increased but the aggregation response to agonist, the recovery response to hypotonic shock, platelet cou nt, glucose level, pCO(2), and HCO3 decreased during storage. In DMSO-conta ining groups, the P-Selectin expression which is a predictor of in vitro ac tivation, was found significantly less often than in the DMSO-free group. ( C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.