Bio-inspired adhesive catechol-conjugated chitosan for biomedical applications: A mini review

Area of Science:

• Biomaterial Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Bio-adhesives like cyanoacrylates struggle with wet adhesion in biological environments.
• Mussel adhesive proteins, rich in 3,4-dihydroxy-l-phenylalanine (DOPA), inspire wet-resistant adhesive development.
• Existing bio-adhesives have limitations in tissue adhesion and performance in physiological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the preparation, properties, and applications of chitosan-catechol as a promising bio-adhesive.
• To highlight the advantages of chitosan-catechol over traditional bio-adhesives.
• To explore the potential of chitosan-catechol in various biomedical applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on mussel-inspired adhesives and chitosan modification.
• Analysis of catechol conjugation strategies onto chitosan.
• Examination of studies reporting on chitosan-catechol's solubility, biocompatibility, hemostasis, and adhesion properties.

Main Results:

• Catechol conjugation significantly enhances chitosan solubility in aqueous solutions (up to 6% w/v).
• Chitosan-catechol demonstrates excellent biocompatibility, hemostatic ability, and robust tissue adhesion.
• Mimics mussel adhesive proteins' functionality due to enhanced catecholamine activity.

Conclusions:

• Chitosan-catechol is a highly promising bio-adhesive material inspired by natural mussel adhesion.
• Its improved solubility and biocompatibility make it suitable for diverse biomedical applications.
• Chitosan-catechol is poised for widespread use in wound healing, tissue sealing, and hemostasis.