Cryopreservation of buffy coat derived platelets: Paired in vitro characterization using uncontrolled versus controlled freezing rate protocols.

Background: Cryopreserved platelets show a reduced recovery and viability after freezing and thawing including several ultrastructural and phenotypic deteriorations compared with liquid-stored platelets. It is suggested that using Controlled-Rate Freezing (CRF) can reduce variability and optimize the functionality profile for cells. The objective of the study is to compare cellular, metabolic, phenotypic and functional effects on platelets after cryopreservation using different freezing rate protocols.