Abstract: A method for scavenging free iron or aluminum in fluids such as physiological fluids involves a provision in such fluids of a soluble polymer substrate having chelator immobilized thereon. According to the invention preferred such compounds comprise polysaccharides or proteins having a deferoxamine moiety thereon. Such a compound can be used for the treatment of iron overload, as well as to inhibit cell damage from oxidation/reduction reactions. In one embodiment, cell damage during reperfusion is inhibited, through provision of the chelating moiety at the site of reperfusion.

Abstract: A method for scavenging free iron or aluminum in fluids such as physiological fluids involves a provision in such fluids of a soluble polymer substrate having chelator immobilized thereon. According to the invention preferred such compounds comprise polysaccarides or proteins having a deferoxamine moiety thereon. Such a compound can be used for the treatment of iron overload, as well as to inhibit cell damage from oxidation/reduction reactions. In one embodiment, cell damage during reperfusion is inhibited, through provision of the chelating moiety at the site of reperfusion.