Trans-sodium crocetinate for treating hypoxia/ischemia

Abstract

Background: Trans-sodium crocetinate (TSC) is a novel compound that offers promise as a treatment for conditions caused by hypoxia or ischemia. TSC was originally developed at the University of Virginia for hemorrhagic shock, as part of the battlefield casualty program sponsored by the US Office of Naval Research. Animal toxicology studies have demonstrated that high levels of TSC are well-tolerated, and a Phase I clinical study has shown that TSC is also safe in humans. Objective: The drug acts via a mechanism that has not been previously exploited in a pharmaceutical. TSC increases the rate of oxygen diffusion between the erythrocytes and the tissues by altering the ‘structure’ of water in blood plasma. It does this by causing additional hydrogen bonds to form among the water molecules. Conclusion: Further development of TSC for hemorrhagic shock and other hypoxic/ischemic conditions is being done by Diffusion Pharmaceuticals LLC.

Keywords::

• diffusion
• hypoxia
• ischemia
• oxygen
• respiratory
• shock
• trans-sodium crocetinate
• water structure

Acknowledgements

Much of the preclinical testing involving the use of TSC for hemorrhagic shock was funded by the United States Office of Naval Research as part of their effort to better treat battlefield casualties.