Entegrion announced today that it has been awarded a contract from the Department of the Navy for the development of an integrated dried blood plasma storage and administration prototype. The single integrated unit will have two chambers, one for dried plasma powder and one for saline, a reconstitution fluid. Because of the difficulties in storing blood and blood products for long periods of time, this prototype would allow for lengthy shelf life and ease of administration.
The single unit will feature a breakable wall between the two chambers for rapid mixing. This reconstituted plasma would be administered intravenously to restore the normal blood clotting ability of a severely wounded patient. The prototype will be constructed of a unique flexible and durable plastic, to support the storage of dried plasma powder at extreme temperatures. The Department of the Navy contract requires that Entegrion complete this prototype within six months.
“Entegrion is honored by the Navy’s confidence in our experience toward improving the stability and availability of blood and blood components, wherever they are needed,” according to Stan Eskridge, Entegrion's president and CEO.
Resusix, concentrated human plasma that is spray dried for long-term storage, is currently in development at Entegrion. Clinical trials will begin in the late 2009 and spray dried plasma for civilian application is expected by 2012.
