The therapeutic potential of hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOC) in the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Abstract Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is an unrelenting and progressive lung disorder characterized by the unchecked accumulation of fibrotic tissue within the lung parenchyma, leading to substantial deterioration in pulmonary function and overall survival rates. The complexity of IPF's etiology and the limited efficacy of current treatment modalities underline the critical need for innovative therapeutic strategies. This research assesses the therapeutic viability of Hemoglobin-based Oxygen Carriers (HBOCs) in moderating the severity of pulmonary fibrosis and enhancing oxygenation within a bleomycin-induced IPF mouse model. By focusing on the administration of HBOCs, we meticulously examined their impact on various crucial parameters, including pulmonary function, the extent of fibrotic tissue deposition, inflammatory response, and survival probabilities. The results from our study unequivocally demonstrate that HBOC treatment not only significantly curtails the progression of pulmonary fibrosis but also markedly improves arterial oxygen saturation and diminishes the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the affected mice. These encouraging outcomes underscore HBOCs' potential as an innovative and effective therapeutic avenue for IPF, presenting opportunities to substantially elevate patient well-being and quality of life. Consequently, this investigation adds valuable insights to the accumulating evidence in favor of employing oxygen therapeutic solutions in the management of fibrotic lung conditions and strongly advocates for the continuation of clinical trials to corroborate these promising effects in the context of human IPF.