The Development of Synthocytes™, a Novel Platelet Substitute

A novel platelet substitute Synthocytes™ is being developed for the treatment and prevention of bleeding in acute thrombocytopenia. Synthocytes™ are composed of microcapsules of human serum albumin (HSA) to which human fibrinogen is immobilised. The product is manufactured using virally inactivated human blood derived proteins and is formulated as a sterile pyrogen free lyophilised preparation. The potential advantages of Synthocytes™ over platelet transfusion include a reduced risk of blood borne virus transmission, no risk of alloimmunogenic reactions, an increased shelf life and therefore a more cost effective, more easily managed therapy.