Transforming growth factor beta-3 and nitric oxide levels in four autologous platelet concentrates and plasma derived from equine blood

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate single and double centrifugation tube methods for concentrating equine platelets, leucocytes, transforming growth factor beta-3 (TGF-ß₃) and nitric oxide (NO). Whole blood samples were collected from clinically healthy horses and processed using single and double centrifugation tube methods to obtain four platelet concentrates (PCs): PC-A, PC-B, PC-C and PC-D, which were analyzed using a flow cytometry hematology system for haemogram. Concentrations of TGF-ß₃ were determined in all the samples by ELISA and NO levels were determined by Greiss reaction. Platelet and leukocyte concentrations for each PC and whole blood were statistically different (P < 0.05). Levels of TGF-ß₃ and NO for each PC and plasma were similar. In conclusion, the single and double centrifugation tube methods are reliable for concentrating equine platelets. However, TGF-ß₃ levels do not depend of the number of platelets or leucocytes concentrated with both centrifugation tube procedures.