Evaluation of microRNAs; mir223, mir222 and mir92a levels in the Platelet-derived microparticles in the Platelet concentrates produced by Platelet Rich Plasma method during storage

Abstract Background and Objectives Platelets release microparticles containing cellular components, including microRNAs, during storage. Assessment of these microRNAs is one of the markers for evaluation of platelet storage lesions. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the level of changes in the expression of mir-223, mir-92a and mir-222 during storage in platelets prepared by platelet rich plasma method.   Materials and Methods In this experimental study, 5 platelet concentrates prepared by PRP method were collected from blood donors and stored at 22°C for 5 days with agitation. Changes in the expression levels of mir-223, mir-92a and mir-222 were determined using qRT- PCR method on days zero, three and five of storage. The results were analyzed using paired-sample-T test using GenEX version 7 software.   Results It was found that the expression of miR-223 gradually increased during the third and fifth days compared to the day 0 of platelet concentrate storage (p < 0.05). The expression of mir-92a also significantly increased on the third and the fifth days compared to day 0 of storage (p < 0.05). However, the expression of mir-222 gradually decreased over the fifth day of storage (p < 0.05).   Conclusions  This study showed that the determination of miRNAs in the platelet-derived microparticles with common markers such as platelet count, MPV determination, platelet volume determination, leukocyte count, swirling assay, and pH measurement can be useful tools for identifying cellular damage associated with platelet storage lesion and maybe potential indicators for evaluating the quality and viability of platelets stored in vitro conditions.