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Immunostaining-Based Detection of Dynamic Alterations in Red Blood Cell Proteins
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Immunostaining-Based Detection of Dynamic Alterations in Red Blood Cell Proteins

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Prion reduction of red blood cells: impact on component quality

Michael Wiltshire1, Stephen Thomas, Janet Scott

  • 1Components Development Laboratory, NHS Blood and Transplant, Essex, UK. michael.wiltshire@nhsbt.nhs.uk

Transfusion
|December 3, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Prion filtration using the P-Capt filter reduces infectious prions in red blood cells (RBCs) without impacting blood group antigens. However, it does cause a significant loss of hemoglobin (Hb).

Area of Science:

  • Transfusion Medicine
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Prion Disease Research

Background:

  • Infectious prions pose a risk in blood transfusions.
  • A novel P-Capt filter has been developed to remove prions from red blood cells (RBCs).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the operational use of the P-Capt filter for prion reduction in RBCs.
  • To assess the quality of filtered RBC components.
  • To determine if prion filtration alters blood group antigen expression.

Main Methods:

  • 272 leukoreduced RBC units were processed using P-Capt filters (top-and-top and bottom-and-top methods).
  • Standard in vitro tests assessed RBC quality post-filtration.
  • Blood group antigen expression, including cryptantigens, was investigated.

Main Results:

  • Prion filtration led to a loss of 7-8 g of hemoglobin and a 6-9% reduction in hematocrit.
  • Hemolysis increased post-filtration but remained within UK specifications.
  • No clinically relevant immunologic changes to the RBC membrane were observed.

Conclusions:

  • P-Capt prion filtration is effective in removing prions without detrimental effects on RBC quality or blood group antigens in vitro.
  • A notable consequence of P-Capt filtration is the reduction in hemoglobin content.

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