| abstract |
Methods which increase the bioavailability of beneficial gases in the circulatory system are provided. The methods involve administering agents that changes the binding affinity of a medicinal gas such as NO, CO, H 2 S, N 2 O, SO, SO 2 and O 2 for Hb and/or hemoglobin based oxygen carriers (HBOCs). The change results in increased release of gases carried by Hb and HBOCs. As a result, the concentration of the OH gases in circulation is raised, and they are more available to exert their beneficial effects, e.g. in the treatment of disease or conditions caused by low levels of the gases. The methods are optionally used together with administration of medicinal gases and/or administration of HBOCs and/or other non-HBOC gas carriers such as PFC, and as (or in conjunction with) diagnostic methods. |