In this study

glucose and PVP were used as main protective reagents to lyophilize human red blood cells. Factors affecting uptake of glucose in red blood cells including extracellular glucose concentration

incubation temperature and time were optimized. Then the mixtures of red blood cells loaded with glucose and protective solutions were lyophilized. The results show that the uptake of glucose was dependent on extracellular glucose concentration

incubation temperature and time. Moreover

the onset temperature of crystal measured by DSC decreased with the increase of PVP concentration

but excessive vitrification may not fit lyophilization of red blood cells. In addition

the free hemoglobin concentration of lyophilize-rehydrated red blood cells was lower than 1g/L. In conclusion

lyophilization of human red blood cells by glucose and PVP is feasible

but how to reduce the osmotic injury of PVP is critical.