The use of N-(2-mercaptopropionyl)-glycine (MPG) for preparation and storage of platelets

The SH group containing drug MPG which inhibits platelet aggregation in a reversible manner was used as a cytoprotective substance in some experiments on preparation and storage of human platelets for transfusion. In vitro (n = 6): concentration, morphology score, HSR and aggregation of stored platelets were measured after simulating in vitro the post transfusional conditions by resuspension of stored platelets in fresh drawn plasma (pH 7.4, 37 degrees C). In vivo (n = 2): Autologous platelets stored for 48 h at 22 degrees C were labelled with 111In and retransfused. The results obtained from platelets prepared and stored in plasma containing MPG were compared with those obtained from control platelets without MPG.