Cross-linked hemoglobin increases fractional reabsorption and GFR in hypoxic isolated perfused rat kidneys.

We compared the ability of human red blood cells (RBC) and a cell-free oxygen carrier to maintain isolated perfused kidney function under moderately hypoxic conditions. Recirculating perfusate was gassed initially with 93% air-7% CO2, and, after 30 min, the gas was changed to 12 O2-7 CO2-81% N2. Oxygen content of the perfusate was increased with RBC (30 g/l Hbg) or highly purified human hemoglobin Ao (HbAo) polymerized with O-raffinose (o-R-poly-Hb, 30 g/l Hbg).