Molecular analysis of human platelet antigen system 1 antigen on single cells can be applied to preimplantation genetic diagnosis for prevention of alloimmune thrombocytopenia

OBJECTIVE: Our purpose was to develop a molecular assay to determine the human platelet antigen system 1 status on single nucleated cells, including human blastomeres. STUDY DESIGN: Eighty single cultured lymphoblasts of known human platelet antigen system 1 genotype and 24 media blanks were mixed in blinded fashion. Amplification of a 246 bp deoxyribonucleic acid fragment and subsequent Nci I restriction digestion were performed to distinguish human platelet antigen system 1a from 1b alleles. Specificity and sensitivity of the technique were determined. Eight blastomeres were also tested. RESULTS: Deoxyribonucleic acid amplification at the human platelet antigen system 1 locus was successful in 95% of the reactions. No media blanks showed amplified deoxyribonucleic acid. The diagnosis was correct in all homozygous human platelet antigen system 1a or 1b cells; three of 23 heterozygous cells amplified but failed to digest with Nci I. Overall specificity was 95%. All blastomeres successfully amplified. CONCLUSIONS: The human platelet antigen system 1 status determination is reliable from a single cell and can be used for preimplantation genetic diagnosis for the prevention of alloimmune thrombocytopenia. (AM J OBSTET GYNECOL 1994;170:807-12.)