Abstract:
Modified surface hemoglobin is produced by attaching large molecules, such
as polyethylene glycol, to the surface groups of lysine. This modification increases
the viscosity and oncotic pressure of the solution [4]. These solutions can moderately
constrict blood vessels. Due to the small size of the hemoglobin molecules, they can
pass through small vessels and saturate areas with oxygen that are inaccessible to
erythrocytes [2,5]. This makes it useful for treating patients with strokes, as well as
increasing the sensitivity of tumor cells to radiation or chemotherapy. Additionally,
the vasopressor effects can be used to treat hypotension after septic shock. This type
of hemoglobin also has a low frequency of antibody production.
