16/07/2026
I first read about this research in 2023, i never knew they were serious . It is a good thing.
However, as a Medical Professional, I still have several scientific concerns before concluding that this product is ready for use clinically . After reverting back to my medical books and few research plus my clinical experience in transfusion medcine, i have 10 important questions to ask:
1) How effectively does the encapsulated hemoglobin release oxygen at the tissue level compared with normal red blood cells, especially in critically ill patients?
2) Can this artificial blood adequately transport carbon dioxide back to the lungs, or is its function limited mainly to oxygen delivery?
3) Red blood cells do much more than carry oxygen. How well does this product replicate the physiological functions of natural erythrocytes, including buffering and nitric oxide regulation?
4) What are the long-term effects of repeated transfusions? Could there be cumulative toxicity or immune sensitization that has not yet appeared in short-term trials?
5) How will patients with sepsis, sickle cell disease, autoimmune disorders, renal impairment, or liver disease respond to this product?
6) What is the risk of oxidative stress from free hemoglobin if the lipid particles break down during circulation?
7) How is the product metabolized and cleared from the body, and could it place additional strain on the kidneys or liver?
8)Will it interfere with routine laboratory investigations such as blood grouping, crossmatching, hemoglobin measurement, coagulation assays, or other hematology and chemistry tests?
9 Human trials involving healthy volunteers are reassuring, but what evidence do we have regarding safety and efficacy in trauma patients experiencing massive hemorrhage, where the physiology is completely different?
10)Does the extended storage period affect the stability, oxygen-carrying capacity, or safety profile of the product over time?
While the preliminary data appear promising, I believe it is too early to consider this equivalent to human blood. Larger Phase III clinical trials and long-term post-marketing surveillance will be essential before widespread adoption. Until then, i am not convinced.
LINUS AKAWU
FOUNDER
Preventive Health Initiative