Thinking ahead: developing biosynthetic blood to anticipate donor drought

Abstract

Advances in scientific research suggest the possibility of a viable biosynthetic blood technology that could radically transform the health outcomes of people around the world. Such a development would enhance a drastically insufficient global supply of red blood cells needed for transfusions, while also mitigating severe risks to donor supply precipitated by future pandemic or environmental catastrophes. However, insufficient funding is obstructing necessary further development. There is a pressing need for focused investment to advance scientific development, and an opportunity for government and philanthropic funds to help ensure that safe, efficacious biosynthetic blood becomes commercializable in a manner that enables global affordable access.