Soluble dextran-hemoglobin complex as a potential blood substitute.

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Abstract
A complex between soluble dextran and human hemoglobin was synthesized by 2 different methods. In the alkylation method, Hb was allowed to react with bromoacetyl groups incorporated into the dextran; the yield of the complex was about 80% in terms of the Hb used. In the dialdehyde method, Hb was allowed to react with dialdehyde groups on the dextran generated by periodate oxidation; the yield of the complex was about 60%. Both soluble dextran-Hb complexes could bind and release O2 reversibly, but the O2-binding curves were shifted to the left relative to that of free Hb. In the rabbit the complex obtained by the alkylation method was excreted by the kidneys and cleared from the circulation much more slowly than free Hb.