Ultrastructural Morphometric Investigations on Normal Human Platelets

Abstract

Platelets from normal human volunteers were investigated by ultrastructural morphometry. Preparation of blood samples was done in two different ways in order to evaluate the possible influence of the preparative method on the size and shape of platelets and their organelles. No significant differences could be demonstrated for any of the measured parameters. Relative volumes of specific granules, mitochondria and the open canalicular system were calculated according to the method of Weibel. Surface and numerical densities of some compartments were determined. Direct measurements of the long and short axes of the platelets were conducted to ascertain further information about their size and shape. Absolute data are in good agreement with the few reports in the literature.

Monitoring of Platelet Activation in Platelet Concentrates Using Transmission Electron Microscopy

“…The evaluation of the state of PLT acquired from ultrathin sections can be performed using morphometry [30,33] but implicates always interactive steps such as the choice of the PLT which can be assessed and of others that have to be neglected since they show predominantly too small fragments. The advantage of our score classification consists of the registration of alterations and different activation stages of PLT caused by the manipulations during production of PC.…”

Immunocytochemical localization of fibrinogen, platelet factor 4, and beta thromboglobulin in thin frozen sections of human blood platelets.

“…The ultrastructure of human blood platelets has been established previously (37)(38)(39) and, in general, platelet morphology in the cryosections was very similar to that in plastic sections.…”

Buffy Coat or Platelet‐Rich Plasma?

“…r. L12 = mp. r (2n1-1)~ where: mp = mass ofa single platelet; r = radius from mp = V,.y V, = Volume of a single platelet which was calculated to be about 6.4.10-'* m3 [16], and y=specific gravity of platelets estimated to be about 1.05 kg/dm3.…”