PubMed · 7940654
The source did not provide an abstract. Follow the original record for more information.
Explore connections, maps & timelines
J F Buckman. 1994. Quality is not optional.. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1537-2995.1994.341095026967.x
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.
KEEP EXPLORING
Sequential serum samples from four plasma donors (designated A, B, C, and D) at a Chinese blood bank with hepatitis C transmission problems were studied from 1994 to 1997. The samples were examined for antibodies to HCV, for HCV viremia by PCR and HCV genotyping. Co- and superinfections were studied by direct sequencing of the 5'-NCR, core, and HVR-1 regions, using low and high genotype-specific primers targeting the HVR-1, and by cloning of selected samples. Genotype changes occurred in all four donors: A (1b-2a-1b), B (1b-2a-2a/1b-1b), C (1b-2a), and D (1b/2a-1b). Donor D was married to donor B. The 1b isolates of donor A could not be sequenced in the HVR-1 due to low-level viremia. Two early 1b isolates from donors B and C showed high HVR-1 similarity. The later 1b isolates from B had changed significantly but were identical to the isolate from donor D. Spouses B and D also shared genotype 2a strains. The 2a isolates from donors A, B/D, and C differed by 8-10 nucleotides in the HVR-1. The frequent changes in genotype and the appearance of homologous isolates from different subjects indicate transmission at the blood bank. These four donors, all identified shortly after infection, developed very few mutations in the HVR-1 and few quasispecies during a period of 6-18 months. Highly specific primers proved to be superior to cloning for identification of minor virus populations. The results indicate nosocomial transmission of more than one strain at the blood bank studied.
BACKGROUND: Allogeneic bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cell transplantation is the treatment of choice for a number of malignant hematological diseases, marrow failure syndromes and severe congenital immunodeficiency states. As a new, valuable source of hematopoietic stem cells, cord blood has become increasingly attractive to the medical community. More than 1500 related and unrelated cord blood transplantations have already been performed worldwide. Cord blood can be a particularly good alternative source of stem cells for pediatric patients, if no HLA-identical donor can be found. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In August 1997 the Cord Blood Bank at the University Hospital of Dresden initiated the collection, processing and cryopreservation of placental blood. This Cord Blood bank is promoted by the German bone marrow donor registry DKMS in Tübingen/Germany collaborating with 8 gynecological clinics in Dresden, Bautzen and Erlabrunn. Before cryopreservation, volume reduction of cord blood units is routinely performed by centrifugation and by separation of the buffy coat. RESULTS: As of March 2000, more than 2200 cord blood units have been collected. 60% of the samples had to be discarded because of insufficient quality (low volume and/or cell count, bacterial contamination, positive infectious disease markers). However, more than 800 cord blood units met all quality control criteria and were cryopreserved. CONCLUSION: These data from the Cord Blood Bank at the University Hospital of Dresden are comparable with results from other cord blood banks. Efforts directed toward the cryopreservation and banking of increased numbers of cord blood units are being continued worldwide and should be supported by the general public.
Explore the source record for details and available documents.