Blood sterilization processes harmful to platelets

Additive solution and Intercept also reduced platelet volume on day 1, which the investigators say could be explained by the platelet activation and release of microparticles induced by the treatments.

MicroRNA release

The investigators hypothesized that activated stored platelets could release microRNAs through microparticles in the supernatant. So they collected supernatant from each of the 5 groups and analyzed their total content of miR-223, which is one of the most abundant platelet microRNAs. 

They discovered that the total amount of miR-223 was increased 30% to 86% in the microparticles released from additive solution and Intercept-treated platelets. They did not observe this increase in irradiation- or Mirasol-treated platelets compared to controls. 

"The platelets end up depleted of RNA so, once transfused, they're unable to do what they normally would," Dr Provost said. Nevertheless, the clinical implications of the reduction in platelet activation and impaired platelet aggregation after Intercept treatment remain to be established.

The  pathogen-reduction treatments are already marketed in some European countries, notably Switzerland, France, and Germany, and are under consideration in other countries, including Canada and the United States. 

"In light of what we have demonstrated, the potentially harmful effects of these treatments should be carefully evaluated in the countries where they are not yet approved. It should also be re-evaluated in those countries where they are," Dr Provost said.