Use of PGE1 for preparation of platelet concentrates.

Platelets stored as platelet concentrates (PCs) undergo biochemical, functional, and morphological changes that may inhibit their hemostatic effectiveness. Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) (5.9 X 10(-8) M) added to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) immediately before PC preparation reduced platelet activation during PC preparation and storage as determined by inhibition of beta-thromboglobulin release and thromboxane B2 production. However, PCs prepared with PGE1 contained less glycogen after storage than PCs prepared by standard methods. All PC platelets lost their ability to aggregate in response to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) during storage, but sensitivity to dual stimulation with epinephrine and ADP was retained. These findings suggest that addition of PGE1 to PRP may permit production of platelets that are hemostatically superior to conventional PCs. In vivo studies to evaluate this possibility are indicated.