Immunoglobulins
Immunoglobulins, also known as antibodies, are Y-shaped proteins produced by plasma cells that help protect the body against infection by binding to pathogens like viruses and bacteria. The most common plasma-derived immunoglobulin medications are intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIG). IVIG is administered directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous line, while SCIG is injected under the skin. These immunoglobulin products are used to treat a wide range of immunodeficiency disorders where patients have low antibody levels. They are also beneficial for other conditions involving autoimmune responses or inflammatory reactions.
Coagulation Factors
Plasma Derived Medicine contains numerous coagulation factors or clotting factors that work together in an intricate cascade to form blood clots and stop bleeding. Some people have inherited deficiencies in certain clotting factors which puts them at high risk of excessive bleeding from minor cuts or prolonged bleeding after surgery or injury. Recombinant technology allows clinicians to isolate specific coagulation factors from plasma and manufacture them as concentrates to treat related bleeding disorders. Examples include Factor VIII for hemophilia A and Factor IX for hemophilia B. Regular injections of these clotting factor replacements help control bleeding episodes.
Albumin
Albumin is the most abundant plasma protein that primarily functions to maintain blood pressure by keeping fluids in circulatory vessels. It also transports hormones, vitamins, and medications throughout the body. Derived from human plasma, albumin solutions are given intravenously to expand blood volume in cases of shock, burns, liver disease and other conditions associated with dangerously low albumin levels. Albumin's oncotic properties draw fluid back into the bloodstream from tissues.
Other Plasma Protein Products
In addition to immunoglobulins, clotting factors and albumin, technological advancements now allow extraction of specialized proteins and enzymes from plasma for numerous medical therapies. Antithrombin is used to prevent blood clots during high-risk surgeries. Alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor replacement helps reduce lung damage in patients with genetic alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Plasma-derived medicines like intravenous immunoglobulin are also valuable research tools that accelerate development of treatments.
Ensuring a Safe and Reliable Supply
To safely extract plasma derivatives from human blood donations on an industrial scale requires a robust system of donor screening, manufacturing oversight and product testing. All blood plasma used to manufacture these life-saving therapies must undergo nucleic acid testing to rule out potential viral infections like HIV, hepatitis B and C viruses. Plasma fractionation facilities apply rigorous purification techniques such as advanced chromatography methods, viral removal filters and chemical/heat treatment protocols. Finally, plasma derivative products undergo sterility, purity and potency testing to confirm they meet strict pharmaceutical standards prior to approval and distribution. With healthy volunteers donating plasma regularly and companies adhering to strict quality regulations, Plasma Derived Medicine will remain a cornerstone of modern medicine.
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