1


                                  EXHIBIT 23.1

                          CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP

                          
          We consent to the incorporation by reference in the
     Registration Statement (Form S-8) pertaining to the 1996
     Equity Incentive Plan and the Employee Stock Purchase Plan
     of Cerus Corporation of our report dated January 16, 1997
     for the years ended December 31, 1995 and 1996 with respect
     to the financial statements of Cerus Corporation, included 
     in its Registration Statement (Form S-1 333-11341), filed
     with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


                                            /s/ Ernst & Young LLP
                                            ---------------------

                                            Ernst & Young LLP

     Walnut Creek, California
     May 13,1997





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