PERFLUOROCHEMICAL OXYGEN CARRIERS - POTENTIAL USES IN NEUROSCIENCES

In this article we review recent developments in the field of ''first- '' and ''second-generation'' perfluorochemical (PFC) oxygen carriers. Particular emphasis is placed on the latest research and its implicati ons regarding the clinical and experimental neurosciences. These compo unds are ideally suited to the transportation of O-2 within the vascul ar system. Two properties that facilitate their use in this respect ar e their very high solubility coefficients for O-2 and CO2 and their bi ological inertness. Unfortunately, their widespread use has been limit ed by logistical difficulties associated particularly with their molec ular behavior in vivo. However, advances in PFC technology have led to renewed interest. A potential role for second-generation PFCs in cere bral protection is exciting. Other possible significant applications a re slowly becoming established in clinical practice. Currently under i nvestigation are potential uses in the management of severe head injur ies, radiotherapy or chemotherapy of malignant brain tumors, protectio n against air embolism, preservation of organs for transplantation, an d as a tool in microsurgery of the retina or other parts of the CNS. D iagnostic neuroimaging applications could include the employment of PF Cs as adjuncts in ultrasound, Doppler, computed tomography (CT), and m agnetic resonance (MR) to achieve enhanced imaging and precise staging of inflammatory, neoplastic, and vascular disease processes. Research applications could include their use in magnetic resonance imaging an d spectroscopy in assessing cerebral blood flow, local oxygen tension, and brain metabolism, in molecule-specific imaging, and as physiologi cal markers of O-2, ions, and pH.