Abstract:
Pooled human platelet lysate (pHPL) has been used to expand adipose-derived stromal cells
(ASCs) and can be formulated using fresh or expired buffy coats (BCs) which are then
resuspended in either plasma or an additive solution. Not much is known about the effects
that expired products and additive solutions have on ASC expansion, and the need for quality
control and release criteria has been expressed. This pilot study compared proliferation, cell
size, morphology and immunophenotype of ASCs expanded in the different pHPL alternatives
versus foetal bovine serum (FBS). Quality control criteria were assessed prior to and during the
manufacture of the pHPL alternatives. ASCs were then expanded in 1%, 2.5%, 5% or 10% of the
different pHPL alternatives or in 10% FBS. Cell size, morphology, cell number and immunophenotype
were measured using microscopy and flow cytometry. The majority of the pHPL
alternatives were within the recommended ranges for the quality control criteria. ASCs
expanded in the pHPL alternatives were smaller in size, displayed a tighter spindle-shaped
morphology, increased cell growth and had a similar immunophenotype (with the exception of
CD34 and CD36) when compared to ASCs expanded in FBS. Here we report on the effects that
expired BC products and additive solutions have on ASC expansion. When taken together, our
findings indicate that all of the pHPL alternatives can be considered to be suitable replacements
for FBS for ASC expansion, and that expired BC products can be used as an alternative to
fresh BC products.
