Existing production technology of artificial blood in the laboratory allow to make a limited number of erythrocytes (red blood cells) from stem cells. But British researchers have found a way around this limitation.
Researchers from the University of Bristol and the UK National Health Service have developed a technique that allows certain to receive an unlimited number of red blood cells from stem cells. This was achieved through the creation of "eternal" immature red blood cells that can be grown in unlimited quantities. This opens up the possibility of mass-produced synthetic blood.
However, the biggest challenge is to translate this technology to the stage of commercial production. The researchers were able to produce in the laboratory a few liters of blood, using a new technique. This is not enough, given that even one day in the hospital require much larger volume of blood. UK National Health Service intends to use in order to test artificial blood this year. But blood is obtained on the basis of the new technology will not take part in the tests.
Source: Engadget
Tags: Medicine , Technology
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