As reported in Science Translational Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital scientists have developed an injection that delivers oxygen directly into the bloodstream. Made of microparticles, the injection delivers the oxygen via the microparticles which consist of a layer of fatty molecules surrounding a small pocket of oxygen. Once placed in a liquid solution, these microparticles, and the oxygen contained within, can be delivered to the patients.
This is a short-term oxygen substitute, in animal studies the subjects were kept alive without breathing for 15 minutes. This could potentially give emergency personnel valuable time to assist patients who cannot breathe, and the scientists say that the molecules are easy to carry around and convenient for use.
The microparticles are specifically designed for individuals who cannot breathe and are not blood substitutes. For more information about the study please visit http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/247295.php.