Microencapsulation IV: Cross-Linked Hemoglobin Microcapsules

Abstract

Hemoglobin microcapsules were prepared through cross-linking of hemoglobin itself with various acyldichlorides. Variations in the reticulation conditions were performed in order to ameliorate the oxygen dissociation curve, the mean diameter, and the possibility for the microcapsules to be lyophilized. With terephthaloylchloride, as the cross-linking agent, incorporation of inositol hexaphosphate and glucose, followed by stabilization through glutaraldehyde and using a high stirring speed, allowed preparation of stable hemoglobin microcapsules, 5 μm in diameter, which suffered rapid lysis by proteases. They were able to ensure oxygen transfer: the dissociation curve was sigmoidal with a p50 = 13 mm Hg. They retained these properties after lyophilization followed by rehydration.