Platelet Transfusions in Murine Models of Neonatal Thrombocytopenia.

We have created a neonatal murine model of platelet transfusion to study the biological effects of platelet transfusions given to neonates. This model replicates the "developmental mismatch" that occurs when human preterm neonates receive a transfusion of functionally different adult platelets. These methods utilize common in vivo techniques that have been tailored for the small size of P1-P10 pups. Using this model and blood draw/analysis methods, investigators can prepare a washed, resting platelet transfusion product and transfuse it into a clinically relevant neonatal mouse model to interrogate both the hemostatic and immune functions of platelets and platelet transfusions in this important clinical context.