Two future generations of blood substitutes based on polyhemoglobin-SOD-catalase and nanoencapsulation

This paper discusses our research on two new generation blood substitutes. One is based on the crosslinking of hemoglobin, superoxide dismutase(SOD) a nd catalase (CAT) to form polyhemoglobin-SOD-CAT. This is being investigate d for use in conditions with potential problems related to ischemia-reperfu sion injuries as in severe hemorrhagic shock, stroke and other conditions. The second one is based on biodegradable polymeric nanocapsules containing hemoglobin and enzymes. In this form, the hemoglobin and enzymes are-separa ted from the external environment. Furthermore, modifications of the polyme ric membrane can result in increase in circulation time. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.