Red Blood Cell (IMAGE) Rice University Caption Researchers at Rice University and three other US institutions are embarking on a five-year study to make blood transfusions safer and more effective by uncovering the exact causes of hemoglobin toxicity. Credit Photos.com/Rice University Usage Restrictions Must credit. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.