Encapsulation of exogenous agents in erythrocytes and the circulating survival of carrier erythrocytes.

Erythrocytes can be made to entrap enzymes, lipids, drugs, pesticides, and large macromolecules by a variety of encapsulation procedures. Methods of encapsulation include hypotonic dilution and dialysis, lipid fusion, electrical hemolysis, and chemical perturbation. The survival of carrier erythrocytes is dependent on the method of encapsulation as is the encapsulation efficiency. Research has led to utilization of carrier cells for drug and enzyme-replacement therapies, for incorporation of DNA and antibodies into living cells, and for enhancement of the oxygen-carrying capacity of hemoglobin. Many of the possible uses of erythrocytes as carriers are explored.