Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE)
DETherapeutischer Plasmaaustausch (TPE)
Reviewed by Maurice Lichtenberg
TPE is a specific form of plasmapheresis in which approximately one to one-and-a-half plasma volumes are removed and replaced per session with albumin, saline, or donor plasma, rather than re-infused. It is standard of care for several neurologic and hematologic diseases. Longevity interest stems from rodent dilution studies suggesting rejuvenation; small human trials (e.g., in Alzheimer's) are early and ongoing, with no proven anti-aging benefit.
Sources
- Kim D, Kiprov DD, Luellen C et al.. (2022). Old plasma dilution reduces human biological age: a clinical study. *GeroScience*doi:10.1007/s11357-022-00645-w
- Gulej R, Patai R, Ungvari A et al.. (2026). Plasma-based strategies for systemic rejuvenation: critical perspectives on clinical translation. *GeroScience*doi:10.1007/s11357-026-02136-8
