Evaluation of the platelet surface by fluorescence flow cytometry

Flow cytometry has significantly contributed to cell biology, especially with use of tagged monoclonal antibodies. Discovery of specific platelet surface membrane receptors has helped to elucidate the pathogenesis of several platelet related disorders. Concomitantly, monoclonal antibodies to specific receptors have also been developed. Using fluorescent antibody techniques, small populations of platelets with distinct characteristics can be analyzed efficiently. Monoclonal antibodies, e.g., (AP-3), specific for glycoprotein, IIIa and (6DI), directed against an epitope close to the VWF binding site, have already been employed,--the latter by fluorescence flow cytometry. In addition to studies of primary surface membrane disorders, flow cytometry has been applied to measurements of surface immunoglobulin and C3 on individual platelets in autoimmune and alloimmune thrombocytopenia. Flow cytometry may also be utilized for platelet crossmatching. This simple, specific and non-radioactive technique can effectively provide accurate platelet surface data in a small clinical laboratory.