Vitamin e and derivatives prevent damage in red cells sterilized by phthalocyanines and light

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Disclosed is an improved process for irradiating cell-containing compositions especially, red cell-containing compositions wherein vitamin E or a , derivative thereof is added to the cell-containing composition prior to during or after such irradiation. Addition of vitamin E or a derivative thereof is protective of cells in such compositions but not of virus. Cells , irradiated using the inventive process show a reduced leakage of K+ from cells and also a reduced loss of negative charges from the cell membrane compared to cells subjected to the similar process wherein vitamin E or a derivative thereof are not used. In addition, red blood cells sterilized by this process are better …