Fabrication of red-blood-cell-like polyelectrolyte microcapsules and their deformation and recovery behavior through a microcapillary.

She, Shupeng; Li, Qinqin; Shan, Bowen; Tong, Weijun; Gao, Changyou · Adv Mater · 2013

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Multilayer microcapsules with a biconcave discoidal shape mimicking red blood cells (RBCs) are fabricated. The structure of the RBC-like microcapsules is verified by scanning electron and confocal laser scanning microscopies. The capsules show elastic deformation after being forced through a microcapillary with a smaller diameter, exhibiting a high recovery ratio of ≈90%. When the capsules are coated with hemoglobin (Hb),they are able to reversibly bind and release oxygen.

Medical subject headings