Agarose Micro/Nanostructured Surfaces: A Step Toward an Innovative Solution for Platelet Storage Bags

Abstract In addressing the critical limitations associated with platelet storage, the study investigates an innovative solution aimed at preventing the unwanted activation of platelets within storage bags. This activation is a key factor that currently restricts the shelf life of platelet products to only 72 h, leading to extreme waste production and high costs. Here, highly effective surfaces are identified for minimizing surface‐induced platelet activation. Using thermal nanoimprint lithography (T‐NIL), a new method is demonstrated for patterning reproducible agarose micro/nanostructures (a natural hydrogel with anti‐platelet adhesive properties) including dots, chains, pills, and squares. The agarose (3%) structured surfaces displayed outstanding flexibility and hydrophilic behavior that prevented platelet adhesion as confirmed by confocal microscopy. Importantly, pill‐shaped structures effectively maintained their ability to prevent platelet adhesion, even after a long cell‐contacting duration. Atomic force microscopy indicated that the effectiveness of dampening platelet adherence is determined by the shape, size, height, and aspect ratio of the structures. A model is provided to explain how the different shapes affect wettability and thereby hinder platelet adherence. The developed anti‐adhesive agarose structured surfaces show promise to revolutionize platelet storage, provide vital insights into biomaterials research, and demonstrate the potential of tailored agarose surfaces in biomedical applications.