Translational projects

The Component Development Translational Project Team leads large-scale, long-term initiatives that transform preclinical research into clinically validated solutions. Supported by a mix of internal and external funding, these major projects progress from basic research through prototype development and clinical trials, to implementation within the blood service.​

Translational science sits at the heart of this work, focusing on the active progression of scientific ideas into practical applications that improve patient care and service delivery.

By systematically addressing the scientific, clinical, regulatory, and operational challenges involved in this journey, the team bridges the gap between fundamental research and real-world impact within the blood service.​

Meet the team

Learn more about the Component Development Team and the Head of Translational Research, Melanie Munro.

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Universal components

Towards universal blood components: Improving flexibility and resilience

ABO compatibility requirements can limit inventory flexibility. Through the NHSBT supported Universal Components Project, we are evaluating technologies that reduce anti‑A and anti‑B antibodies from blood components to broaden compatibility, reduce wastage and strengthen supply resilience for patients and health care services. 

The long-term aim is to deliver Universal plasma and platelets that can be transfused to anyone regardless of blood group.

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Dried plasma

Dried plasma: Building a UK capability for rapid, life-saving transfusion.

The UK spray‑dried plasma programme is developing a rapidly deployable plasma product for trauma and emergency care as part of the Blood Far Forward programme.

Led by NHSBT with commercial and defence partners, the programme has shown that dried plasma can be stored at ambient temperature, reconstituted within minutes, and support haemostatic function. Leading to more lives saved on the battlefield and in civilian emergency situations.

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Cord blood derived red blood cells

Exploring red blood cells derived from umbilical cord blood for neonatal transfusion: A feasibility study

Preterm neonates needing transfusions receive red blood cells from adult donated blood. However, there is a growing interest internationally in the possibility that red blood cells derived from umbilical cord blood may represent a better component for transfusion for these babies.

We are undertaking a programme of work in NHSBT to evaluate the feasibility of producing and supplying umbilical cord derived red blood cells for transfusion to preterm neonates. The aim is to develop a validated product that is compliant with UK regulatory standards for potential use in a future clinical trial and ultimately in routine use.

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RESTORE

RESTORE: Recovery and survival of stem cell originated red cells.

RESTORE is a pioneering programme exploring the potential of laboratory‑grown red blood cells for future transfusion practice. Led by NHSBT, the NIHR Blood and Transplant Research Unit in Red Blood Cell Products, and the NHSBT Clinical Trials Unit, the first‑in‑human trial has completed follow‑up, with results expected in 2026 or 2027.

The programme is advancing understanding of cultured red cell survival and function in vivo, supporting the development of innovative therapies and sustainable blood supplies for patients with complex transfusion needs.

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