In vitro effects of poly-N-acetyl glucosamine on the activation of platelets in platelet-rich plasma with and without red blood cells.

BACKGROUND: This study was performed to assess the effect of poly-N-acetyl glucosamine fiber slurry on plasma clotting proteins, platelets, and red blood cells in the clotting of the blood. METHODS: Citrate phosphate dextrose whole blood was stored at 22degreesC for 48 hours to prepare platelet-poor plasma, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and PRP plus red blood cells with hematocrit values of 20%, 35%, and 45% with and without an equal volume of poly-N-acetyl glucosamine fibers (1 mg/mL 0.9% NaCl). RESULTS: Thromboelastogram data show that poly-N-acetyl glucosamine fibers (p-GlcNAc) significantly reduced the R time in platelet-poor plasma, PRP, and PRP supplemented with red blood cells. Poly-N-acetyl glucosamine fibers increased, but not significantly, Annexin V and factor X binding to platelets, platelet microparticles, and red blood cell Annexin V binding. Poly-N-acetyl glucosamine fibers increased the production of thromboxane B2 by PRP. CONCLUSION: Poly-N-acetyl glucosamine slurry activates platelets.