PAA-PU Janus Hydrogels Stabilized by Janus Particles and its Interfacial Performance During Hemostatic Processing.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Wound Healing Technologies

Background:

• Hydrogels are promising for hemostasis and wound healing due to moisture retention and adhesion.
• Homogeneous hydrogels can cause secondary injury due to tissue adhesion.
• Existing Janus hydrogels have weakened asymmetric functions due to obvious interfaces.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate a novel hierarchical adhesive polyacrylic acid-polyurushiol water-oil Janus hydrogel (JPs@PAA-PU).
• To investigate the properties and performance of the Janus hydrogel for hemostasis and wound healing.
• To evaluate the biosafety and potential for clinical application.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Janus hydrogel using a one-pot method with polystyrene@silica-siliver Janus particles.
• Characterization of morphological structure, mechanical properties, and anisotropic chemical composition.
• In vivo and in vitro evaluation of hemostatic, adhesion, and antibacterial properties.

Main Results:

• The Janus hydrogel exhibited distinct compartmentalization in microstructure, functional groups, and chemical elements.
• Asymmetric interfacial toughness was observed (top 52.45 ± 2.29 Kpa, bottom 7.04 ± 0.88 Kpa).
• The hydrogel demonstrated shorter hemostatic time, less blood loss, and >90% antibacterial efficacy against E. coli and S. aureus.

Conclusions:

• The developed Janus hydrogel possesses asymmetric properties and enhanced hemostatic and antibacterial functions.
• The material shows excellent biosafety, indicating its potential for future clinical use.
• This Janus hydrogel offers a promising alternative to homogeneous hydrogels, minimizing secondary injury.