Defining the optimal storage conditions for the long-term storage of platelets.

Aging of platelets after in vitro storage at 22 degrees C is significantly slower than aging of platelets in vivo at 37 degrees C, a situation that may make long-term storage of platelets possible. Three approaches appear to be of specific importance: (1) to reduce the activation of platelets during collection of blood and the preparation and storage of platelet concentrates, (2) to reduce the metabolic rate of glucose consumption and lactate production, and (3) to make sure that glucose is available in the storage medium during the entire storage period. The activation of platelets can be counteracted either by the addition of platelet activation inhibitors or the availability of certain components such as potassium and magnesium in the synthetic storage media. The use of synthetic media offers the possibility to include additional platelet-specific components in the storage environment. A number of effects have been observed that can be assigned to certain added components. Reducing platelet activation and the inclusion of key components in the platelet storage environment, such as glucose, acetate, citrate, phosphate, potassium, and magnesium, may optimize storage conditions for the long-term storage of platelets.