Coagulant Protein-Free Blood Coagulation Using Catechol-Conjugated Adhesive Chitosan/Gelatin Double Layer

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Medical Device Development

Background:

• Marine mussels exhibit remarkable underwater adhesion due to polyphenolic compounds.
• Developing effective hemostatic materials remains a critical challenge in medicine.
• Existing hemostats often rely on conventional coagulation proteins, limiting their applicability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create bio-inspired hemostatic materials mimicking mussel adhesive properties.
• To develop a novel material for pseudo-active blood coagulation using passive polymers.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the developed hemostatic material for clinical use.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a two-layer hemostatic material: catechol-conjugated chitosan (CHI-C) and gelatin (Geln).
• Utilizing chitosan and gelatin as passive polymer matrices for adhesive hemostasis.
• Testing coagulopathy-independent blood clotting properties and biocompatibility.
• Evaluating hemostatic efficacy in multiple animal models.

Main Results:

• The CHI-C/Geln material demonstrated coagulopathy-independent blood clotting.
• The material met biocompatibility standards without conventional coagulation proteins.
• Approved as a class II medical device by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (Republic of Korea).
• Showcased superior hemostatic efficacy in animal models compared to standard treatments.

Conclusions:

• Mussel-inspired biomimicry offers a promising approach for advanced hemostatic materials.
• The CHI-C/Geln material presents a safe and effective alternative for rapid hemostasis.
• This development contributes to readily accessible and affordable hemostatic solutions.