The present invention relates to compositions for the preservation of organs and blood. More particularly, it relates to a composition for the preservation and storage of organs, which comprises macromolecules in an amount sufficient to inhibit cell swelling; a buffer in an amount sufficient to perform a buffering function to the range of physiological pH; an energy source in an amount sufficient to maintain bio-energy; magnesium ions in an amount sufficient to maintain bio-energy; and an aldehyde-removing agent in an amount sufficient to remove intracellular aldehydes. Also, it relates to a composition for the preservation and storage of blood, which comprises mannitol in an amount sufficient to inhibit haemolysis; a buffer in an amount sufficient to perform a buffering function to the range of physiological pH; an energy source in an amount sufficient to maintain bio-energy; citrates in an amount sufficient to perform anticoagulant action; and an aldehyde-removing agent in an amount sufficient to remove intracellular aldehydes.
