| abstract |
The present invention provides compositions containing hemoglobin, in particular PEGylated hemoglobin. The PEGylated hemoglobin molecule may carry oxygen or carbon monoxide bound thereto to a tissue in close proximity thereto. Exemplary PEGylated hemoglobin formulations of the invention are virus inactivated. Various compositions of the present invention include oxygen scavenged hemoglobin that can be combined with one or more water soluble polymers. PEGylated hemoglobin includes species in which the iron atom of the hemoglobin molecule is not bound to oxygen or any other species, and species other than oxygen, such as hemoglobin molecules in which carbon monoxide is bound to the iron atom. The compositions of the present invention are formulated as a shelterable, isotonic or hypertonic solution of the PEGylated hemoglobin. The composition is useful for treating and / or ameliorating diseases, injuries and injuries by providing oxygen supply to tissues and / or organs. |