Cryopreservation of Platelets Isolated with the IBM 2997 Blood Cell Separator: A Rapid and Simplified Approach1

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Abstract
The equivalent of 5-7 U of platelets, isolated from a single [human] donor with the IBM Blood Cell Processor 2997 using a dual stage separation chamber, was frozen with the cryoprotectant dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). The DMSO-saline solution was added directly to the platelets, and the platelets were frozen in a polyvinyl chloride plastic bag by storage in a -80.degree. C mechanical freeze. Washing the thawed platelets with a phosphate-buffered NaCl-dextrose solution, pH of 5.0, removed .apprx. 95% of the DMSO. In vitro freeze-thaw-wash recovery was 80%, and in vivo 51Cr platelet recovery was 31%. Platelet dense body granules were well maintained after freezing, thawing and washing. This is a safe and effective method of platelet cryopreservation which can be performed in less time than other currently used methods.