Transfusions of whole blood and blood components represent one of the most widely used life-saving procedures in the healthcare sector. But the complexities of human blood along with the risks of transmitting blood borne diseases and the uncertainty of adequate factor-matched supplies has long been the Achilles heel of blood donations and blood product therapeutics. A number of companies are working toward the commercialization of blood substitutes that are designed to eliminate most of the shortcomings of blood transfusions while creating an alternative product for a world market valued at around $9 billion annually. Over the years, the path to commercialization has seen many hopeful product candidates fall by the wayside, and for the new generation of candidates several hurdles remain. Beyond clinical endpoints, factors such as cost relative to donated blood and managed care acceptance also await. Successful participants will be those companies able to endure the lengthy development cycle while creating commercial avenues through partnerships with established sector companies.

Publication Date: May 2008