Characteristics of Hb-vesicles and encapsulation procedure.

The performance of Hb-vesicles depends on the weight ratio of Hb to lipid ([Hb]/[Lipid]). This value is improved by lowering the number of bilayer membrane of the vesicle and raising the concentration of Hb in the interior of the vesicle. Maximum [Hb]/[Lipid] ratio was obtained at ca. pH 7, that would relate to the isoelectric point (pI) of Hb at 25 degrees C. On the other hand, the [Hb]/[Lipid] ratio decreased with ionic strength and increased with lowering temperature. The Hb-vesicles encapsulating 40 g/dl Hb with only one bilayer membrane were isolated by using the difference in the density of the vesicles.