Abstract: The functional characteristics of heme proteins can be modified to produce hemoglobins that can be used as blood substitutes in different therapeutic applications. Stable polymers of tetrameric hemoglobin, and of myoglobin molecules, are provided for use in the blood substitutes.

Abstract: A method of treating a surface to be contacted by a protein-containing fluid reduces protein adsorption to the surface. The method comprises coating or siliconizing the surface with a lower alkyl silane selected from the group consisting of monoalkyl silanes of the formula RSiX.sub.3 wherein R is selected from ethyl and branched (C.sub.3 -C.sub.5) alkyl and X is selected from hydrolyzable groups, such as halogen or lower alkoxy, and dialkyl silanes of the formula R'.sub.2 SiX.sub.2 wherein R' is (C.sub.2 -C.sub.5) alkyl and X is as described above. For example, borosilicate glass vessels for storing blood may be treated.

Abstract: Cellular organelles, examples of which are mitochondria, microsomes and chloroplasts, are bound in an active state on a substantially inert and insoluble support surface, examples of which are alkylated glass, kaolin, talc, silica, ferrites, alumina, and some alkyl substituted high molecular weight polymers. Binding between the support surface and the organelle is accomplished by adsorption of the isolated organelle onto the support surface. Immobilization in this manner does not affect the functional behavior of the organelle. These systems have utility for the synthesis of specific chemical substances.