Summary
Scientists are working on artificial blood that can help save lives when real blood is not available. This synthetic blood is made from hemoglobin and can be stored as a powder, which medics can quickly mix with water to use in emergencies.
Key Facts
- Scientists are developing artificial blood to use when regular blood is unavailable.
- Artificial blood is made from hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen in the body.
- The blood is stored in powdered form, making it easy to transport and store for long periods.
- Medics can mix the powdered blood with water in emergencies to create a usable blood substitute.
- The University of Maryland School of Medicine is leading this research.
- The synthetic blood is designed to be safe by encasing hemoglobin in fat bubbles, which prevents toxicity.
- The U.S. Defense Department is funding research to develop this synthetic blood for use by military medics.
- Researchers plan to test this artificial blood in humans eventually.
