Peripheral Blood Hematopoietic Progenitor Cell Graft Thawing

Abstract

Hematopoietic cell transplants (HCTs) have been performed for decades, and the number of both autologous and allogeneic transplants is constantly increasing. Mobilized peripheral blood (PB) hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) are the most common cell source for adult patients, replacing almost completely the traditional bone marrow (BM) graft. Cryopreservation of PB HPC graft allows collecting and storing the product for later use. Cryopreservation is an essential practice for autologous products but can also be helpful for allogeneic one. The cryopreservation process itself can decrease cell viability and potency, and some of the reagents that are used to protect cells during cryopreservation can have toxic effects at thaw. Maintaining functional and viable HPCs is fundamental for HCT success. Thawing approaches of cryopreserved PB HPC should either minimize cell exposure time to toxic elements or include measures to rapidly remove them after thawing.