Beneficial effects of novel cross-linked hemoglobin YQ23 on hemorrhagic shock in rats and pigs.

Background: To overcome the problems of previously reported hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers, we developed a stabilized nonpolymeric cross-linked tetrameric hemoglobin solution (YQ23). The aims of this study were to investigate the oxygen carrying and releasing properties of this novel hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier and to determine whether it has beneficial effects for hemorrhagic shock.

Methods: Using a hemorrhagic shock model in Sprague-Dawley rats and mini-pigs, we tested the effects of infusing 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 g/kg YQ23 on animal survival, tissue oxygen delivery (DO) and consumption (VO), hemodynamics parameters, and liver, renal, and cardiac function.

Results: YQ23 infusion increased the survival rate of rats and pigs with severe hemorrhagic shock in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, it improved the hemodynamic parameters, cardiac output, DO and VO, and the mitochondrial respiratory function of vital organs. Among the three doses of YQ23, 0.5 gHb/kg YQ23 achieved a similar beneficial effect as whole blood.

Conclusions: This study indicated that the novel cross-linked tetrameric hemoglobin YQ23 has good oxygen carrying and releasing properties and exhibits beneficial effects on hemorrhagic shock in rats and pigs by improving the oxygen carrying and delivery function of blood, which maintains organ function.