Virus Inactivation in the 1990s ? and into the 21st Century: Part 2, Red Blood Cells and Platelets

by Gail Sofer, BioReliance Smallest of the parasites, viruses depend completely on other cells (animal, bacterial, or vegetable) for reproduction ? several hundred viruses infect humans. Viruses can be inactivated by extremes of pH, heat, UV, desiccation, antiseptics, disinfectants, and organic solvents among others. The trick is in finding the right antiviral method for a particular virus ? without harming the biological product of interest. With Part 2 of this literature survey, we look at viral inactivation methods for RBCs and platelets.