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Updated: Aug 5, 2026
11:50
Ex vivo Mimicry of Normal and Abnormal Human Hematopoiesis
Published on: April 10, 2012
Red blood cell substitutes
1Artificial Cells and Organs Research Centre, Department of Physiology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
Bailliere'S Best Practice & Research. Clinical Haematology
|December 5, 2000
Summary
Soluble polymerized hemoglobin (polyhaemoglobin) is being tested in clinical trials as a universal donor oxygen carrier. Newer versions aim to reduce oxidative stress and prolong circulation time for various medical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Hematology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Soluble polymerized hemoglobin (polyhaemoglobin) is advancing to Phase III clinical trials.
- Current applications include trauma and other surgeries, with patients receiving up to 10 liters.
Observation:
- Polyhaemoglobin offers a storage life exceeding one year and can be sterilized.
- Lacking blood group antigens, it functions as a universal donor oxygen carrier.
- Circulation half-life is approximately 24 hours, suitable for peri-operative use.
Findings:
- New polyhaemoglobin formulations incorporate superoxide dismutase-catalase to mitigate ischemia-reperfusion injury by reducing oxygen radicals.
- Recombinant human hemoglobins are under investigation, including variants with low nitric oxide affinity.
- Artificial red blood cells, such as hemoglobin liposomes and nanocapsules, are being developed to extend circulation time.
Implications:
- These advancements in hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs) and artificial red blood cells hold significant promise for transfusion medicine and critical care.
- Potential applications span emergency medicine, surgery, and treatment of conditions involving oxygen deprivation.
- Further development of HBOCs and related technologies could reduce reliance on traditional blood transfusions.
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