In vitro-transfusional model for red-blood-cell study: the advantage of lowering hematocrit
Emmanuel Längst1,2, David Crettaz1, Julien Delobel3
1Laboratoire de Recherche sur les Produits Sanguins, Transfusion Interrégionale CRS SA, Epalinges, Switzerland.
Blood Transfusion = Trasfusione Del Sangue
|November 8, 2022
Summary
A new in vitro model simulating transfusion at 5% hematocrit (HCT) improved red blood cell (RBC) quality, restoring 2,3-DPG and maintaining ATP levels. This model offers a physiological-close state for evaluating RBC properties.
Area of Science:
- Blood banking and transfusion medicine
- Cellular physiology
- Biomaterials science
Background:
- Red blood cell (RBC) quality is crucial for transfused patients.
- Storage, processing, and donor factors affect RBC quality.
- An in vitro model is needed to assess RBC properties in a transfusion setting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a simple in vitro model simulating transfusion.
- To evaluate the impact of different hematocrit (HCT) levels on RBC quality.
- To assess RBC metabolic activity, hemolysis, morphology, and deformability.
Main Methods:
- Simulated transfusion by mixing RBCs with fresh frozen plasma (FFP) at 5% or 30% HCT.
- Incubated mixtures at 37°C, 5% CO2 for up to 48 hours.
- Quantified metabolites, hemolysis, microvesicles (MVs), and analyzed RBC morphology and deformability.
Main Results:
- The 5% HCT model maintained ATP and restored 2,3-DPG levels.
- Increased glucose consumption and lactate production were observed at 5% HCT.
- RBCs showed improved deformability at 5% HCT after 43 days of storage.
Conclusions:
- The 5% HCT model promotes RBC rejuvenation and maintains a physiological-close state.
- This model can evaluate donor and recipient characteristics' impact on RBCs.
- The model provides insights into optimizing RBC storage and transfusion outcomes.
