Effects of plasma collection systems and processing parameters on the quality of factor IX concentrate

Using pilot-scale production of our present factor IX (II and X) concentrate, we have studied the effects of starting plasma source and processing parameter on two in-vitro indicators of product quality - yield and thrombogenic potential. Plasma source did not affect factor IX yield but had a marked effect on thrombogenic potential. Factor IX concentrates produced from plasma derived through centrifugation-based technology showed significantly higher thrombogenic potential than products derived from plasma derived through a filtration-based system. Removal of Cohn fraction I prior to ion-exchange chromatography resulted in a drop in factor IX yield and thrombogenic potential, as did heat treatment to 80 degrees C for 72 h. We conclude that a membrane-filtration-based plasmapheresis system may be the preferred method of plasma procurement for factor IX concentrate production.