Synthesis of Carbohydrate Derivatives for the Improvement of Red Blood Cell Storage

Most red blood cells (RBCs) are stored from 1-6 °C in an additive solution of saline, adenine, glucose, and mannitol for up to 42 days. Cryopreservation of RBCs at -80 ºC in 40% glycerol can prolong their shelf life to at least ten years; however, the process to remove glycerol prior to transfusion is time-consuming and precludes the use of cryopreserved RBCs in emergency situations. The proposed research aims to develop non-toxic carbohydrate derivatives to improve the quality of hypothermically-stored RBCs and facilitate the use of cryopreserved RBCs.

Faculty Supervisor:

Robert Ben

Student:

Julia Meyer

Partner:

Canadian Blood Services

Discipline:

Biology

Sector:

Life sciences

University:

Program:

Accelerate

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