Oxygen affinity and biocompatibilLty of Neo Red Cells ; in vitro evaluation as preclinical study

The oxygen unloading capacity and in vitro biocompatibilities to blood components of Neo Red Cells (NRC) were examined. NRC showed an extremely increased P50 value (over 50 mmHg) . Complement and karikurein-kinin systems were either marginally activated or not affected by NRC, however blood coagulation was slightly prolonged by the addition of a large amount of NRC. Platlet number and functions were not affected. The pinocytosis of NRC particles was observed by polymononuclear cells and monocytes. In addition, whether stroma-free hemoglobin and NRC were contaminated with hepatitis B and C viruses was examined. The PCR method demonstrated the absence of both viruses. This study was performed as a part of works by the comettee for the preclinical evaluation found by the Society of Blood Substitutes, Japan. These efforts were expected to contribute not only to the investigative validation of NRC but also to the overall progress in the development of blood substitutes.