Plasma industry in Iran: Challenges and opportunities

Several studies have demonstrated the undeniable value of plasma as the source of myriads of proteins with numerous biological activities, many of which might not be discovered yet. Plasma fractionation is a process aiming at the production of plasma-derived medicinal products (PDMPs) such as gamma globulins (immunoglobulin [Ig]), hyperimmune serum globulins, albumin, and clotting and coagulation factors like Factor VIII (FVIII) and FIX. Despite several challenges in the evolution of the plasma industry, there is still worldwide increasing demand for PDMPs with the proof that the market size value of this industry is estimated at 28.69 billion dollars in 2021. In Iran, the plasma industry began its journey with the initial activities of the Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization (IBTO). Regarding the expense of establishing companies for plasma fractionation and elevating demands of PDMP in Iran’s health system, decision-makers implemented contract fractionation which not only supply the needs of the country but also cause significant savings in financial resources. Although the amount of collected plasma has been raised, more than 400,000 liters of collected plasma is still half of the required amount as Iran’s demand for FVIII and albumin is over the supply. Putting together these data that the clinical indications for PDMPs, particularly IVIg, are growing (as seen in COVID-19) and commercially purchasing products is not economically beneficial, it is necessary for Iran’s policymakers to invest in the plasma industry by establishing more plasmapheresis centers and raising people’s awareness to donate more amount of plasma in order to elevate the levels of plasma collection annually. Moreover, entering the industry of fractionation by localization of this science and construction of fractionation plants should be on the agenda.