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Red cell membrane changes during storage
1Canadian Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, Saskatoon Centre, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Transfusion Medicine Reviews
|March 1, 1988
Summary
Red blood cell storage causes membrane damage and stiffening, impacting transfusion quality. Research is exploring molecular defects and prevention strategies to improve cell function and survival.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Biochemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Red blood cell (RBC) storage leads to progressive spheroechinocytosis and loss of deformability.
- Membrane dysfunction during storage is linked to cytoskeletal abnormalities, independent of ATP levels.
- Specific molecular defects in RBC membranes during storage remain largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the specific molecular abnormalities of the red blood cell membrane during blood bank storage.
- To identify mechanisms underlying membrane stiffening and loss of function.
- To explore strategies for preventing storage-related RBC deterioration.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of spectrin-actin interactions and spectrin oxidation.
- Investigation of plasticizer DEHP interactions with the RBC membrane.
- Characterization of molecular defects in membrane proteins.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests abnormal spectrin-actin interactions and spectrin oxidation contribute to storage-induced RBC changes.
- DEHP's interaction with the membrane warrants further study.
- Understanding molecular defects is crucial for targeted interventions.
Conclusions:
- Preventing RBC membrane deterioration and stiffening during storage can enhance transfused cell quality and microcirculatory survival.
- Further research into molecular defects and preventative measures is essential.
- Developing improved storage media could also increase plasma and Factor VIII yields.