What is Artificial Blood and How Does It Work?
Artificial blood, also called a blood substitute, is a specially designed product that mimics certain vital functions of human blood, primarily carrying oxygen and replacing lost blood volume. According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), artificial blood aims to bridge the gap during emergencies, surgeries, or in cases where donated blood is unavailable. While it cannot yet perform all the complex tasks of natural blood—like immune defense or clotting—it can help sustain life until a transfusion is possible.
What is Artificial Blood and How Does It Work?
Artificial blood comes in two main types:
- Hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs) – These use purified or modified hemoglobin to deliver oxygen directly to tissues.
- Perfluorocarbon-based emulsions (PFCs) – These are synthetic compounds capable of dissolving and releasing oxygen.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notes that these substitutes are being developed to be universal, meaning they do not require blood type matching, and many prototypes can be stored for up to one year at room temperature—a huge advantage over donated blood, which lasts only 42 days under refrigeration.
What is Artificial Blood’s Role in Healthcare?
Artificial blood can be a game-changer in emergencies like natural disasters, battlefield injuries, and rural accidents. In these situations, blood banks are often out of reach. Research funded by the U.S. Department of Defense and NIH highlights promising products like ErythroMer. This freeze-dried powder reconstitutes quickly with sterile water. It is easy to carry, stores without refrigeration, and is ready for immediate use on-site.
In Japan, clinical trials show artificial blood can transport oxygen and platelets at the same time. This breakthrough could end shortages and save countless lives. Government-backed studies confirm its potential to reduce mortality rates in emergencies.
Healthcare Note
Artificial blood is still under research, and no product is yet widely approved for routine clinical use in the U.S. However, with ongoing government and global investment, it may soon become a life-saving option in critical care. Until then, donated human blood remains the safest and most reliable choice.
