ErythroMer: A Man-Made Red Blood Cell Substitute
ErythroMer: Nanoscale BioSynthetic Red Cell Substitute
This project is developing a new type of artificial blood, called ErythroMer, to help people who need emergency transfusions when regular blood isn't available.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kalocyte, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11159433 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
ErythroMer is a new artificial blood designed for emergencies when traditional blood transfusions are not an option. It is made of tiny particles that carry hemoglobin, much like your own red blood cells, and is specifically engineered to avoid problems seen with earlier artificial blood products. This special design helps it carry oxygen effectively, prevent harmful side effects, and remain stable for a long time. The goal is to create a product that can be stored easily at room temperature and produced affordably, ready for urgent situations. Researchers are carefully testing its safety in the lab and in animal models to prepare for future testing in people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is ultimately aimed at helping patients who experience severe blood loss and require immediate transfusions, such as in accidents or combat situations.
Not a fit: Patients who do not require emergency transfusions or who have access to traditional banked blood may not directly benefit from this specific artificial blood product.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, ErythroMer could provide a life-saving option for emergency transfusions, especially in situations where traditional blood supplies are scarce or unavailable.
How similar studies have performed: Previous attempts to create artificial blood have faced challenges, but ErythroMer is designed with new features to overcome these past obstacles.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Kalocyte, INC. — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alp, Esma — Kalocyte, INC.
- Study coordinator: Alp, Esma
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.