Novel processes for inactivation of leukocytes to prevent transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease

Transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease (TA-GVHD) is a serious complication of blood component transfusion therapy. Currently, cellular blood components for patients recognized at risk for TA-GVHD are irradiated prior to transfusion in order to prevent this complication. Considerable progress has been made in elucidating the pathophysiology of this highly morbid complication, but questions as to which patients are at risk and what is the most robust technology to prevent TA-GVHD remain. As new technologies for inactivating or modulating leukocyte function are introduced, the question of how to evaluate these technologies becomes relevant. Over the past two decades, a number of research groups have explored technology to inactivate infectious pathogens and leukocytes contaminating cellular blood components. Few clinicians have an in-depth understanding of the methods or the criteria for selection of how to approach new technologies for leukocyte inactivation with potential to replace current methods. This mini review focuses on the salient aspects of current and evolving technology for prevention of TA-GVHD.