(P-TS-72) Next-Generation Platelet Storage Units for Better and Safer Transfusions

Platelet transfusion is a vital therapy in many clinical conditions. Despite their importance, platelet storage remains challenging as the cells have a maximum shelf-life of 5-7 days. This limited storage period results in widespread scarcity, causing delayed treatment and preventable death. During storage, cell quality decreases, resulting in inferior transfusion quality and increased wastage. Transfusion units are also readily contaminated by bacteria, making transfusions unsafe. These problems emerge due to the failure of existing storage materials, as current bags activate plasma proteins and platelets, and cannot kill invasive bacteria. A next-generation platelet storage device that is biocompatible with platelets while being antifouling and antibacterial could improve platelet transfusion quality, safety, and reduce wastage.

Study

Design/Methods:

Our group has developed a line of universally applicable anti-biofilm coating based on the co-assembly of polydopamine (PDA) with a library of ultra large hydrophilic polymers via a one-step deposition in water, and identified compositions with long-term antibiofilm activity. Further, we have developed a method for depositing these coatings on current CBS-standard PVC blood bags that is amenable to scale-up, and have shown excellent biocompatibility and anti-adhesive properties with platelets over 7 days of storage. We have also developed a strategy of conjugating surface-specific broad spectrum antibiofilm agents (e.g. antibiofilm peptides (ABPs)) onto the coating. Using these advancements, we have developed prototype coatings that can effectively kill contaminant bacteria while preserving the quality of the platelets in storage. 

Results/Findings:

We have identified 3 top polymer coatings that can significantly reduce platelet adhesion throughout the 7-day storage period and preserve platelet quality better than the current medical standard throughout the first ~4 days of storage. The coatings also demonstrate non-inferiority to current platelet storage units throughout the entire storage period, indicating that our coatings are biocompatible. As such, our technology may be a promising platform for platelet-contacting devices, and is fit for further optimization and application. We have also identified two AMP-coupled coating formulations that are capable of killing bacteria in platelet units within the first 48 hours of platelet storage. These AMPs have not resulted in a rise in CD62P, but marginally elevate annexin V after 5 days of storage.

Conclusions:

Taken together, we have developed a simple and universally applicable approach to developing platelet-friendly and antifouling coatings for platelet storage units that show strong bactericidal and biocompatible qualities.