Efficient RT-PCR on platelet mRNA after long-term storage.

We have developed a procedure permitting RT-PCR from mRNA even after a long-term storage (1 year) of platelet samples in ethanol (EtOH-platelets) at -80 degrees C. To validate our method, we have analysed the human platelet alloantigen system (HPA-1) which is coded by beta 3 mRNA. We have also demonstrated the efficiency of amplification of part of the coding region for (i) alpha IIb subunit mRNA, (ii) alpha v subunit mRNA, and (iii) the seven transmembrane domain thrombin receptor mRNA.