Effects of storage conditions on bovine carrier erythrocytes

Bovine carrier RBC containing [14C]sucrose as a marker were stored for 23 days in protein-free media. Cell recovery was highest with a phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) containing 2 mM MgCl2, 5 mM inosine, 5 mM adenosine, and 10 mM glucose. A cell recovery of 60% was observed after 23 days of storage at 4 C. Stored carrier erythrocytes reinjected into cattle had an 18-day half-life, which is less than that for fresh carrier RBC.