COLD STORAGE OF MODIFIED PLATELETS

摘要

A method for storing and using platelets and an associated platelet struc ture. At least one modified platelet is formed. Each modified platelet inclu des a platelet and at least one polymerated chemical. Each polymerated chemi cal includes a polymer covalently bonded directly to the platelet or include s the polymer and a linker molecule such that the linker molecule is covalen tly bonded to the platelet and the polymer is covalently attached to the lin ker molecule. The polymer of each polymerated chemical of each modified plat elet is polyethylene glycol (PEG) or a PEG derivative. Forming each modified platelet does not include modifying the platelet membrane of each platelet with a glycan-modifying agent. The at least one modified platelet is stored in a temperature range below 20°C for at least one hour. After being stored, the at least one modified platelet may be introduced into a mammal.