Transfusion of Polyethylene Glycol Conjugate of Pyridoxylated Human Hemoglobin in Dogs with Hemorrhagic Shock

Abstract

Effects of partial exchange of blood with a polyethylene glycol conjugate of pyridoxylated human hemoglobin(PLP-Hb-PEG) on aterial blood pressure, and hematological and biochemical parameters were examined in a model of hypovolemic hypotension in anesthetized dogs. The PLP-Hb-PEG solution was infused after a 30-min period of hypovolemic hypotension (mean arterial blood pressure;60 mmHg) induced by withdrawal of about 50% of arterial blood. The arterial blood pressure(BP) returned to the control level within 30 min after the infusion of the PLP-Hb-PEG solution and stabilized for the rest of the observation period for 12 hours. Pco₂, Po₂ and pH of the arterial blood after infusion of the PLP-Hb-PEG solution remained within the normal ranges. After recovery from anesthesia, all animals survived for more than 8 months without showing any particular signs of adverse effects. Results indicate that the PLP-Hb-PEG solution would have a potential validity for clinical use as a blood substitute for oxygen supply in the case of acute hemorrhage.