Sheep red cell survival (RCS) can be followed using 4 different densities of biotin label

Abstract

Anemia is a serious problem in critically ill neonates. To investigate anemia, to assess responses to red blood cell (RBC) transfusions and erythropoietin therapy, and to compare sources of RBCs and storage methods, simultaneous measurement of RCS would be useful. Here we report the validation in sheep (a common model for perinatal studies of physiology and erythropoiesis) of a method for independent measurement of RCS using 4 populations of RBCs labeled at distinct biotin densities.MethodsBy varying the biotinylating reagent from 12 to 96 ?g/mL RBC, the density of biotin on sheep RBCs was incrementally increased to produce 4 discrete populations. Biotinylated RBCs (BioRBCs) were reinfused, and blood was sampled over the next 4 months. RCS was determined using flow cytometric enumeration and by scintillation counting.ResultsBioRBCs produced parallel disappearance curves with life spans from the linear phase that were similar to the reference 14C‐cyanate method (mean potential lifespan = 66±2 vs 62 d).ConclusionRCS can be measured accurately and simultaneously in sheep using BioRBCs without radiolabeling. NIH P01 HL046925; Thrasher Research Foundation 02825‐3.