Biopreservation and reversal of oxidative injury during blood storage by a novel curcumin-based gel formulation

Blood storage lesion induces cytosolic and membrane changes driven in part by hemoglobin (Hb) oxidation reactions within red blood cells (RBCs). A novel gel formulation containing the antioxidant curcuminoids in a biocompatible solvent system was used to deliver curcumin into RBCs. Incubation of peroxide treated RBCs stored in PBS with curcumin gel led to a reduction in prooxidant ferrylHb and recovery in ATP. Curcumin treatment prevented band 3 tyrosine (Y359 and Y21) phosphorylation. RBCs stored in AS-3 solutions for 28, 35, 42 and 49 days, following a single-dose of 100µM curcuminoids at each time points, caused reduction in protein carbonylation and considerable recovery in ATP levels. Proteomic analysis revealed minimal changes in the proteomic landscape in 35 days. However, a downregulation in fibrinogen was observed in the treated samples which may reduce RBC aggregation. Additionally, we used a guinea pig model where the circulation of infused aged RBCs can be extended (approximately 10%) when treated with curcumin gel at the start of storage. Our data therefore provide mechanistic insights and supportive animal data into benefits of treating stored RBCs with a novel curcuminoid formulation based on the biopreservation of RBC membrane integrity, redox balance, and increased longevity in circulation.