Neuroprotective effect of liposome-encapsulated hemoglobin as an artificial oxygen carrier

Abstract

In the present study we examine whether the intra-arterial infusion of liposome-encapsulated hemoglobin (LEH) via the recanalized internal carotid artery can have the neuroprotective effect on ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury by using transient middle cerebral artery occlusion model of rats. Neurological function was significantly improved and infarct and edema area were significantly reduced in the LEH treatment group. LEH was distributed in more microvessels compared with rat erythrocyte. Because of its small size, LEH can effectively deliver oxygen to narrow microvessels. This advantage may contribute to the inhibition of endothelial damage, and, moreover, the inhibition of neutrophil activation, neutrophil-derived matrix metalloprotease-9 production, and the breakdown of blood-brain barrier. The intra-arterial infusion of LEH may be a promising candidate to prevent I/R injury after thrombolysis and/or thrombectomy.