Erythromer is a new technology that is being developed as a blood substitute. It is made from human hemoglobin. It has some unique properties such as it can be stored as a powder for a long time and can be mixed with saline when needed. It does not have the antigens that are found on red blood cells. Hence it can be used with any blood type.
Erythromer is still in the research phase. It has not been tested on humans yet.Â
In 2023, the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) invested $46 million in research on blood substitutes, including Erythromer.
Developing a blood substitute has been very challenging in the past. Previous attempts with similar products have faced setbacks, including fatalities in clinical trials. The main challenge is replicating the complex functions of hemoglobin safely.Â
Hemoglobin is a delicate molecule that can be harmful if not protected properly. It can also cause damage if the oxygen that it carries is released incorrectly. The role of hemoglobin in regulating nitric oxide also complicates the development process.Â
Erythromer is developed by Alan Doctor and his team at the University of Maryland. It offers a potential solution. The hemoglobin in Erythromer is enclosed in a membrane that allows it to absorb nitric oxide slowly. This innovation has shown promise in animal testing. Researchers used Erythromer and replaced 70% of a mouse’s blood with it. When researchers observed the results, they found that it effectively supplied oxygen. Â
Researchers are now planning to conduct trials in humans around 2028. They want to check if it is safe for human health. If they find positive results, then Erythromer can be a universal blood substitute can. It will be very helpful as it can be easily stored and used by everyone. This blood substitute can easily address blood supply challenges in the world. Â
