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Injectable Nanoengineered Adhesive Hydrogel for Treating Enterocutaneous Fistulas
Natan Roberto de Barros1, Ankit Gangrade1, Ahmad Elsebahy1
1Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Acta Biomaterialia
|March 11, 2024
Summary
A new injectable hydrogel, the nanoengineered adhesive hydrogel (INAH), shows promise for sealing and healing enterocutaneous fistulas (ECF). This biomaterial effectively adheres and promotes healing, offering a potential solution for this severe medical condition.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) is a severe complication, often post-surgery, leading to high morbidity and mortality.
- Current treatments for ECF face challenges in effectively sealing and promoting healing.
- There is a critical need for innovative solutions to manage ECF complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate an injectable nanoengineered adhesive hydrogel (INAH) for sealing and healing ECF.
- To assess the mechanical, adhesive, biocompatible, and healing properties of the novel hydrogel.
- To explore the translational potential of INAH in treating ECF.
Main Methods:
- Development of an injectable hydrogel (INAH) using Laponite® and gelatin-dopamine.
- Co-injection method for rapid cross-linking and enhanced mechanical/adhesive properties.
- In vitro and ex vivo testing for biocompatibility, adhesion, and blood clotting; in vivo studies for efficacy and tissue response.
Main Results:
- INAH exhibited fast cross-linking, improved mechanical strength, and strong adhesion to biological tissues.
- The hydrogel demonstrated biocompatibility, supported fibroblast proliferation, and showed blood clotting ability.
- In vivo studies confirmed INAH's biocompatibility, promoting cell infiltration and ECM deposition without fibrosis.
Conclusions:
- The developed INAH possesses promising properties for sealing enterocutaneous fistulas.
- Its injectable nature, combined with adhesive and biocompatible characteristics, supports healing.
- INAH shows significant potential for clinical translation in managing ECF.
