Chitosan/rectorite nanocomposite with injectable functionality for skin hemostasis

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Animal mucus inspires advanced biomaterials for healing.
• Chitosan and rectorite are biocompatible materials with potential biomedical applications.
• Hemostasis is critical for managing bleeding in various medical scenarios.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, viscous, injectable nanocomposite for effective skin hemostasis.
• To investigate the hemostatic properties and safety of the chitosan-rectorite nanocomposite.
• To explore the internal structure and its role in the biomaterial's performance.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized an injectable nanocomposite using chitosan polysaccharide and rectorite clay.
• Assessed in vitro clotting time reduction.
• Evaluated adhesion and hemostatic efficacy on an in vitro porcine skin model.
• Analyzed the nanocomposite's internal structure (chitosan intercalating into rectorite interlayers).

Main Results:

• The nanocomposite demonstrated a 43% decrease in in vitro clotting time.
• Successful stable adhesion to skin and effective impediment of bleeding were confirmed in a porcine model.
• The internal structure created a physical cross-linked network, limiting rectorite release and blood invasion.

Conclusions:

• The developed chitosan-rectorite nanocomposite shows significant potential as a facile and sustainable biomaterial for skin hemostasis.
• The biomaterial's design addresses concerns regarding the release and systemic invasion of its components.
• This work provides a promising concept for advanced wound care and bleeding management.