S-nitrosohemoglobin (SNO-Hb) can be formed by reaction of Hb
with S-nitrosothiol and by other methods described herein which do not result in
oxidation of the heme Fe. Other methods can be used which are not specific only
for thiol groups, but which nitrosate Hb more extensively, and may produce polynitrosated
metHb as a product or intermediate product of the method. SNO-Hb in its various
forms and combinations thereof (oxy, deoxy, met; specifically S-nitrosylated, or
nitrosated or nitrated to various extents) can be administered to an animal or
human where it is desired to oxygenate, to scavenge free radicals, or to release
NO+ groups to tissues. Thiols and/or NO donating agents can also be
administered to enhance the transfer of NO+ groups. Examples of conditions
to be treated by SNO-Hbs or other nitrosated or nitrated forms of Hb include ischemic
injury, hypertension, angina, reperfusion injury and inflammation, and disorders
characterized by thrombosis. Further embodiments of the invention are methods for
assessing oxygen delivery to the tissues-of a mammal by measuring SNO-Hb and nitrosylhemoglobin
in blood.
