Cross-linked hemoglobins as potential plasma protein extenders.

Reaction of hemoglobin solutions with members of a class of diimidate esters leads to the formation of cross-linked intermolecular or intramolecular complexes depending on the relative concentration of hemoglobin and the length of the carbon chain of the imidate esters. The products have a life-span in the circulation of rabbits significantly greater than that of unmodified hemoglobin and it is suggested that they may serve as plasma protein extenders.