Biotinylated red blood cell

Biotinylated red blood cells (BioRBC) are human or animal erythrocytes that have been covalently labeled on their surface proteins with biotin using reagents such as sulfo-NHS-biotin. This modification allows for the tracking and quantification of these cells in vivo using avidin- or streptavidin-based detection systems. The primary application is in physiological and clinical studies to measure red cell survival (RCS), post-transfusion kinetics, and to investigate mechanisms underlying erythrocyte senescence and injury. Biotin labeling enables accurate measurement of RCS over the entire lifespan of a red cell (up to 120 days), surpassing traditional methods like chromium-51 labeling which are limited by radioactive decay and elution issues[2][3][5]. The process is performed under current good manufacturing practices (cGMP) for investigational use in humans[6]. While generally well-tolerated, repeated exposure can induce anti-BioRBC antibodies in some individuals; however, these antibodies have not been associated with clinical abnormalities[1].

Other names

biotinylated red blood cellsBioRBCbiotin-labeled red blood cellsbiotin-tagged RBCsBIOTINYLATED HUMAN RED BLOOD CELL