A ribosome infusion is prescribed as treatment for extreme cell damage. It is often difficult to find a suitably compatible donor for the infusion but the compatibility can cross species.

In 2366, Doctor Beverly Crusher attempted to convince Lieutenant Worf to agree to a ribosome infusion to treat the Romulan Patahk, who had suffered extensive cell damage and early neural pathway degeneration while on Galorndon Core, a planet with highly active and dangerous electromagnetic storms. Worf, the only compatible donor aboard the USS Enterprise, refused to cooperate in assisting the Romulan and Patahk refused to accept assistance from a Klingon. (TNG: "The Enemy")