A comparative study of platelet storage lesion in platelet-rich plasma under cryopreservation

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has significant potential for various applications and holds clinical value in regenerative medicine. Cryopreservation is used to extend the preservation period of PRP, facilitating its clinical application. However, the potential negative effects of long-term cryopreservation on platelet storage lesion are still uncertain. In this study, PRP was stored at − 30 °C or − 80 °C. Platelet count, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, and CD62P expression were assessed on the 14th and 28th days. The study also evaluated platelet mitochondria morphology and function, serotonin (5-HT) secretion by platelets, and the inflammatory activating effect of cryopreserved platelets in PRP. The results showed that there were no significant differences in platelet count, the content of 5-HT, and inflammatory effects between fresh PRP and PRP cryopreserved at both − 30 °C and − 80 °C. However, there was an increase in ROS level, apoptosis, and CD62P level after cryopreservation at both temperatures. Additionally, the levels of ROS, apoptosis, and CD62P in platelets were similar after storage at − 30 °C and − 80 °C. The main difference observed was that the morphology and function of mitochondria were severely damaged after storage at − 30 °C, while they were less affected at − 80 °C. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that storing PRP at − 80 °C is more suitable for achieving a better therapeutic effect in clinical applications, but cryopreservation could not replace the current standard.