Serum microRNAs as new biomarkers for detecting subclinical hemolysis in the nonacute phase of G6PD deficiency.

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is one of the most common enzymopathies worldwide. Patients with G6PD deficiency are usually asymptomatic throughout their life but can develop acute hemolysis after exposure to free radicals or certain medications. Several studies have shown that serum miRNAs can be used as prognostic biomarkers in various types of hemolytic anemias. However, the impact of G6PD deficiency on circulating miRNA profiles is largely unknown. The present study aimed to assess the use of serum miRNAs as biomarkers for detecting hemolysis in the nonacute phase of G6PD deficiency. Patients with severe or moderate G6PD Viangchan (871G > A) deficiency and normal G6PD patients were enrolled in the present study. The biochemical hemolysis indices were normal in the three groups, while the levels of serum miR-451a, miR-16, and miR-155 were significantly increased in patients with severe G6PD deficiency. In addition, 3D analysis of a set of three miRNAs (miR-451a, miR-16, and miR-155) was able to differentiate G6PD-deficient individuals from healthy individuals, suggesting that these three miRNAs may serve as potential biomarkers for patients in the nonhemolytic phase of G6PD deficiency. In conclusion, miRNAs can be utilized as additional biomarkers to detect hemolysis in the nonacute phase of G6PD deficiency.

Thrombopoietin-independent generation of platelet-like particles from megakaryoblastic cells.

The use of megakaryoblastic leukemia MEG-01 cells can help reveal the mechanisms of thrombopoiesis. However, conventional in vitro activation of platelet release from MEG-01 cells requires thrombopoietin, which is costly. Here, we aim to develop a more straightforward and affordable method. Synchronization of the MEG-01 cells was initially performed using serum-free culture, followed by spontaneous cell differentiation in the presence of serum. Different stages of megakaryoblast differentiation were classified based on cell morphology, DNA content, and cell cycle. The MEG-01 cells released platelet-like particles at a level comparable to that of the thrombopoietin-activated MEG-01 cells. The platelet-like particles were distinguishable from PLP-derived extracellular vesicles and could express P-selectin following ADP activation. Importantly, the platelet-like particles induced fibrin clotting in vitro using platelet-poor plasma. Therefore, this thrombopoietin-independent cell synchronization method is an effective and straightforward method for studying megakaryopoiesis and thrombopoiesis.