[The physicochemical and biological properties of the bovine hemoglobin polymer]

A study was made of bovine hemoglobin polymer obtained by a new method: intraerythrocytic polymerization of hemoglobin followed by isolation of hemoglobin polymer. The polymer obtained had weighted mean and numerical average molecular mass of 388 kD and 134 kD, respectively, P 32 mm Hg, arteriovenous difference 5.1 vol%, Hill's coefficient 2.14, oxygen output rate constant 55 sec, and it retained its activity during long-term storage. Its solution in a concentration of 9-10 g/dl has a viscosity of 2.34, and an oncotic pressure of 240 mm water. Bovine hemoglobin polymer is nontoxic and capable of long-term circulation in the blood. Its safety and clinical effectiveness should be studied in an extended biological experiment.