Events

At the two previous "Iran Plasma" conferences, with the presence of prominent experts, we experienced an exchange of ideas and the creation of innovative solutions. Now, it is time to take another step forward! The Convergence of Knowledge, Policy making, and Industry This important event provided an opportunity for collaboration among plasma industry players, policymakers, physicians, patients, and plasma donors. The scientific secretary of the program delivered a comprehensive presentation on the global status of the plasma industry and the roadmap for its development. A representative from the Plasma Suppliers Association addressed key issues facing the industry, including full supervision of the Food and Drug Administration over plasma manufacturers' activities, the role of the FDA in planning and policymaking for plasma derived medicines, the need for transparency in the regulator's role, and the necessity of revisiting the pricing of plasma derived products. The head of the Food and Drug Administration emphasized creating a balance between liquidity and the country’s needs, as well as the oversight of a regulatory body currently the FDA over plasma manufacturers. The head of the Primary Immunodeficiency Research Center reviewed diagnostic and therapeutic advancements in immunodeficiency diseases and the future outlook of the plasma industry. In the futures studies panel, the path traveled, current obstacles, and the future roadmap were examined. In the speech by the head of the Blood and Biological Products Department of the FDA, advancements in regulatory oversight of the plasma industry and the supply of plasma derived medicines were discussed. In subsequent panels, challenges related to plasma collection and purification were debated. Dr. Nariman Sadri, at the third conference, addressed four key words summarizing the challenges facing the plasma industry during his speech in the presence of Dr. Pir Salehi, the head of the FDA. Additionally, in posing critical questions to the head of the FDA, he dismissed rumors of raw plasma sales and requested that the FDA explicitly clarify its stance on the "allegations of raw plasma sales." He also questioned the regulatory authority over the plasma industry, addressing issues of dual oversight or claims of jurisdiction by the Blood Transfusion Organization. Honoring Pioneers and Donors: Dr. Najafi Arab was honored as a veteran of the industry, and Dr. Vasheghani was recognized as an influential academic figure. Patient representatives also expressed gratitude to two consistent plasma donors. Date: January 2, 2025 (Dey 13, 1403) Location: Razi Hall, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tehran