Despite technical improvements that reduce surgical blood loss, a significant demand for blood persists.
Demand surges during disasters or military operations.
Blood agencies struggle to attract eligible donors. And despite improved blood matching and testing procedures, the risks associated with receiving blood products cannot be completely eliminated. Ideal alternatives to blood products should be safe, easily stored, universal and affordable, thus eliminating the need to carefully cross-match with the recipient's blood type. Synthetic alternatives could overcome religious objections, alleviate supply problems and reduce some sources of risk. The blood's ability to transport oxygen is one of its most critical functions.