Blood and blood cell research

The core function of the Finnish Red Cross Blood Service is to manufacture lifesaving product from donated blood; hence, science-based development of our blood products is critical. We have two focus areas: Blood cell derived extra cellular vesicles (EVs) and development of the whole blood product. Led by two principal investigators, R&D Manager, PI Saara Laitinen, PhD (EV) and PI Jouni Lauronen, MD, PhD (whole blood).

During last two decades extracellular vesicles (EV) shed by virtually all cells have changed our view on cell-to-cell communications, these cell-derived small (20-500 nm) lipid bilayer restricted molecular messengers are key messengers between cells and tissues. As blood is a rich source of EVs it is important to understand both their physiological roles and potential as source of new blood-based therapies.

Whole blood product contains all blood components needed for treatment of major hemorrhage. Whole blood product may be preferable treatment option in emergencies and exceptional circumstances than blood components routinely used in standard care. We are studying the feasibility and safety of the whole blood product in patient care and developing the product for clinical use.

Principal Investigators