Cross-linked inulin as a potential plasma expander: Biochemical properties and physiological characterization in a rabbit model

Inulin, a plant-source polysaccharide, was cross-linked and evaluated as a new potential plasma expander in vitro and in vivo. The cross-linked inulin (CLI) in three different molecular sizes (54, 100 and 146 kDa) was characterized by gel filtration chromatography coupled with multi-angle laser light scattering. Their in vivo physiological properties, including blood pressure and organ function, were tested in a rabbit model. Compared to the other two CLI samples, the CLI2 with a molecular weight (Mw) of 100 kDa is advisable as a potential plasma expander for its strong expansion efficacy and no organ dysfunction. Moreover, CLI2 showed a high colloid osmotic pressure (COP) where the COP of 3% CLI2 is equal to that of 6% HES. Thus, much less CLI2 can be infused with the same effects as normal HES, and its potential side effects can be minimized.