Effects of Platelet-derived Microparticles on the Respiratory Burst in Neutrophils

Background and purpose: Platelet concentrates (PCs) are used in treatment of quantitative and qualitative platelet defects. In some cases it can cause complications in recipients. In PC, white blood cells, some mediators, cytokines and microparticles can contribute to adverse reactions in recipients. In this study, the effects of platelet-derived microparticles (PMP) were surveyed in the stimulation and activation of neutrophils. Materials and methods: In this experimental study, PC units were prepared from Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization and sampling of the bags was carried out. PMPs were separated from PCs and treated with neutrophils. After the incubation time, the respiratory burst of neutrophils was evaluated by flow cytometry using Dihydrorhodamine 123. Finally, data was analyzed using the Wilcoxon non- parametric test. Results: This study revealed that PMPs were able to stimulate and activate neutrophils (P ≤0.05). This effect depended on the final concentration of PMPs. On the other hand, the expression of CD40L molecules on PMPs showed no significant differences in the studied days during storage. Conclusion: According to this study PMPs in PC could play a role in activation of neutrophils.