Silk Fibroin Based Formulations as Potential Hemostatic Agents.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Hemostasis Research
• Textile Engineering

Background:

• Effective hemorrhage control is critical in trauma and defense emergencies.
• Current topical hemostatic agents have limitations including cost, side effects, and efficacy in severe injuries.
• Silk fibroin offers potential as a biomaterial for hemostatic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate silk fibroin fiber-based formulations as a cost-effective hemostatic agent.
• To optimize the production of alkaline hydrolyzed silk microfibers (AHSMf) for enhanced hemostatic properties.
• To assess the hemostatic potential of AHSMf through in vitro blood clotting assays.

Main Methods:

• Silk fibroin fibers from Bombyx mori were processed using alkaline hydrolysis with sodium hydroxide (NaOH).
• Physicochemical parameters (temperature, NaOH molarity, time) were optimized for microfiber yield.
• Surface properties, water uptake, and clotting behavior (pH, temperature) of AHSMf were analyzed.
• In vitro whole blood clotting assays were performed using goat and human blood.

Main Results:

• Alkaline hydrolysis successfully produced silk microfibers (AHSMf).
• AHSMf demonstrated significant reductions in clotting time (CT = 20-30 s).
• Prothrombin time (PT = ~27%) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT = ~14%) were notably reduced compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Developed AHSMf exhibits promising hemostatic properties.
• AHSMf offers a potentially cost-effective and efficient alternative to existing hemostatic agents.
• This silk-based material warrants further investigation for clinical applications in hemorrhage control.