Nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) in pathogens and leukocytes

Nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) in pathogens and leukocytes represent the collective molecular targets of pathogen reduction technologies (PRT) used to enhance the safety of blood components such as platelets, plasma, and red blood cells (Clinical Lab, 2022). These technologies, including the INTERCEPT and Mirasol systems, utilize photochemical or chemical agents like amotosalen or riboflavin to selectively target and damage the genomes of contaminating viruses, bacteria, and parasites, as well as donor white blood cells (Frontiers in Medicine, 2021). The primary mechanism involves the formation of covalent cross-links or adducts within the DNA and RNA strands, which effectively blocks the processes of replication, transcription, and translation (NIH, 2022). This inactivation prevents the transmission of infectious diseases and mitigates the risk of transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease (TA-GVHD) by neutralizing donor T-cells (Intercept Blood System, 2021). While these systems provide a proactive layer of safety against known and emerging pathogens, therapeutic challenges include maintaining the functional integrity of the blood components and ensuring the removal of potentially toxic residual chemicals (Health Council of the Netherlands, 2003).

Other names

DNA and RNA in pathogens and leukocytesPathogen and leukocyte genomesNucleic acids in blood componentsTarget of pathogen reduction technology

Photochemical or chemical inactivation of nucleic acids through intercalation and covalent cross-linking, which prevents helical unwinding and inhibits replication, transcription, and translation of pathogens and leukocytes (NIH, 2022; Intercept Blood System, 2021).