A morphometric analysis of platelets using transmission electron microscopy

Abstract

Platelets are the second most abundant human blood cells. They have an important function to form blood clots at sites of vascular injury to prevent bleeding. Abnormalities of platelet structure can lead to various dysfunctions and life-threatening situations. In some hereditary platelet disorders, morphological examination of platelets with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) may be required. TEM is technically complex, and its use is limited due to the need for expensive equipment and trained personnel. In our study, we assessed the morphometric parameters of platelets obtained from 20 healthy donors using TEM. The study was approved by the Independent Ethics Committee and the Scientific Council of the Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology.