As an established bio-tech firm, we work closely with scientists to develop cutting-edge treatments – connecting blood donors and blood products directly to the research and development of various cell therapies.
Our Research & Development Laboratory is led by Dr. Jennifer Chain, an academically-trained cellular and molecular immunologist and research scientist. Under Dr. Chain’s direction, we have become a national leader among community blood centers in developing cell-based products for research and clinical use. We regularly partner with laboratories and companies to provide source cells for immunology, cancer and cell therapy research, customizing to the needs of the research partner.
In 2021, we received a grant to purchase an Attune NxT Acoustic Focusing Cytometer from ThermoFisher Scientific, to help with these efforts. This sophisticated instrument will help advance Dr. Chain’s research into mesenchymal stromal cells, a population of stem cells found in bone marrow.
In addition to traditional research, we also partner with organizations on projects related to our mission of saving lives and improving quality of life for patients. Recently, we partnered with the OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center and hospice agencies for a clinical trial of in-home blood transfusions to provide better quality of life in end-of-life care. The innovative study will help advance the understanding and practice of palliative care and the role blood can play in it.