NHLBI Research Feature Focuses on Synthetic Platelets

A recent research feature from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) highlights a promising pilot study on synthetic platelets.

Developed by Ashley Brown, PhD, associate professor in the joint biomedical engineering program at North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, these synthetic platelets are crafted from hydrogel nanoparticles, designed to mimic the function and flexibility of natural platelets.

In animal models, Brown and her colleagues have demonstrated potential to reduce blood loss and improve wound healing. Additionally, these synthetic platelets offer a long shelf life, can be stored under various conditions and avoid contamination risks observed in traditional platelets. Her team is exploring optimal storage conditions, with current tests suggesting that freeze-drying could be beneficial for emergency use, such as in ambulances or in similar trauma situations.

“By developing a new generation of treatment options for emergency medicine, this research may help improve patient outcomes while potentially reducing healthcare costs,” said Ronald Warren, PhD, a program director in the Division of Blood Diseases and Resources at NHLBI. Warren has been overseeing the NHLBI funding for pilot studies on synthetic platelets. “Unlike donated platelets, which can vary in quality, synthetic platelets could potentially be produced in large quantities with uniform quality and performance.”