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Updated: Jun 3, 2025

An In Vitro Approach to Study Mitochondrial Dysfunction: A Cybrid Model
Published on: March 9, 2022
Investigating the impact of mitochondrial DNA: Insights into blood transfusion reactions and mitigation strategies
Saeede Bagheri1, Fatemeh Hajiabadi1,2, Reihaneh Vahabzadeh1,2
1Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical and Rehabilitation Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
Background And Objectives:
Although transfusion reactions occur in less than 2% of recipients, they are currently one of the most serious concerns in blood transfusion. Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) are released from injured, stressed or dead cells, leading to inflammation and immune system activation. One of the recognized DAMPs is mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). It is found in various blood products, including fresh frozen plasma (FFP), red blood cell units (RBCUs) and platelet concentrates (PCs), and can induce adverse reactions in recipients by stimulating the innate immune system and inflammatory cellular pathways. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors influencing the release of mtDNA in various blood products and its subsequent impact on transfusion reactions.
Materials And Methods:
In this study, mtDNA, mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA DAMPs, extracellular mtDNA, blood products, blood components and transfusion reactions between 2009 and 2023 were searched in Google Scholar, PubMed and Scopus databases.
Results:
This study has demonstrated the presence of mtDNA in the extracellular milieu of various blood products, including PCs, FFP and RBCUs. Understanding the determinants of mtDNA release and its implications for transfusion safety is critical. Strategies aimed at reducing mtDNA release, such as optimizing preparation techniques and donor selection criteria, hold promise for reducing transfusion-related complications.
Conclusion:
By addressing these factors, healthcare providers can enhance the safety and efficacy of blood transfusion practices, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Insights
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is present in blood products and can cause transfusion reactions. Reducing mtDNA release through optimized preparation and donor selection may improve transfusion safety.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Transfusion Medicine
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Transfusion reactions are a serious concern, despite occurring in <2% of recipients.
- Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), such as mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), are released from damaged cells.
- Extracellular mtDNA in blood products can activate innate immunity and inflammatory pathways, potentially causing adverse reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate factors influencing mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) release in blood products.
- To assess the impact of extracellular mtDNA on transfusion reactions.
- To identify strategies for mitigating transfusion-related complications.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar (2009-2023).
- Keywords included: mtDNA, mitochondrial DNA, DAMPs, extracellular mtDNA, blood products, blood components, and transfusion reactions.
Main Results:
- Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) was confirmed in the extracellular environment of platelet concentrates (PCs), fresh frozen plasma (FFP), and red blood cell units (RBCUs).
- Understanding mtDNA release determinants is crucial for transfusion safety.
- Optimizing preparation techniques and donor selection are potential strategies to reduce mtDNA release.
Conclusions:
- Addressing factors that influence mtDNA release can enhance blood transfusion safety.
- Improved transfusion practices lead to better patient outcomes.
- Further research into mtDNA mitigation strategies is warranted.
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