Characteristics of artificial red cells. Hemoglobin encapsulated in poly-lipid vesicles

Artificial red cells (ARC) were prepared by encapsulation of purified human Hb with polymerizable phospholipid, 1,2-bis (2,4-octadecadienoyl)-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DODPC). The polymerized lipid bilayer of the ARC produced great physical stability that could not be achieved using a non-polymerizable lipid for encapsulation. ARC showed no change in particle size or distribution or leakage of Hb after repeated freeze thawing (stability test). ARC have also been studied with regard to biocompatibility. The authors' results showed low acute toxicity (> 8000 mg/kg) and adequate blood compatibility. The result of transfusion tests in dogs showed that ARC had sufficient oxygen transporting capabilities.