Platelets are disc-shaped blood cells and are essential for normal blood clotting. Platelet transfusions are given to patients who are at risk for bleeding or are actively bleeding. Blood transfusions are one of the most common hospital procedures. The Stolla lab is determining how long and in which storage solution platelets can be stored to maintain adequate post-storage viability and function. In addition, the lab is working on improving alternative platelet products including frozen, lyophilized and pathogen-reduced platelets for transfusion. Other projects focus on mechanisms of platelet transfusion biology including prevention of alloimmunization, and mechanisms of endothelial support by platelets.