Other Activitiy
R&D
| We investigate ways to prevent adverse transfusion reactions and do research to improve blood transfusion practice.
As with all therapeutic interventions, blood transfusion may sometimes have unintended side effects. We investigate adverse transfusion reactions and research new diagnostic methods and preventive measures. Alternatives to natural red cells are being developed to carry oxygen in the bloodstream. Possible advantages include simpler storage conditions, longer shelf life, and the ability to transfuse without regard to blood type. Some alternative oxygen carriers are actually manufactured from donated blood that is not suitable for direct transfusion. We are participating in a world-wide effort to investigate the safety and feasibility of alternative oxygen carriers. The shelf life of platelets is currently limited to 4 days, after which they cannot be used for transfusion and are wasted. We are investigating ways to extend the useful shelf life of platelets. Whole blood naturally contains donor white cells, related to immune function and sometimes associated with transfusion reactions. Donor white cells are usually removed and discarded during blood component manufacture. We are developing new technology use these white cells. |
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Fluorescence Microscope Small, translucent cells such as platelets are easier to examine when labeled with fluorescent dye and viewed by fluorescence microscopy. |
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Cell Culture Cell culture is one of the techniques used to investigate transfusion reactions. |
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Flow Cytemeter Flow cytometry is a way to count different kinds of blood cells in a sample, including cells associates with transfusion-related adverse outcomes. |
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Nucleic Acid Amplification Nucleic acid amplification is a way to multiply the number of copies of a specific gene or gene fragment to detectible levels, and to perform various experiments. |