Changes in platelet shape and structure after freeze preservation

Abstract

About 60% of the platelets freeze preserved in 6% dimethylsulfoxide retained the discoid shape characteristic of fresh platelets. The remainder were sphered. Platelet sphering occured during freezing and thawing and was not related to the addition or removal of the cryoprotective agent. Platelets that retained the disc shape had a well preserved ultrastructure, but sphered platelets showed extensive ultrastructural changes.