Mussel-Inspired Hemostatic Hydrogel Adhesive Formulated from a Gelatin-Oxidized Dextrin Double Network

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Hydrogels offer biocompatibility and biodegradability, making them suitable for hemostatic applications.
• Internal bleeding and organ injuries require advanced materials for effective hemorrhage control.
• Existing hemostatic agents may lack sufficient adhesion or specific functionalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a mussel-inspired adhesive hemostatic hydrogel (GMOD) for internal bleeding management.
• To investigate the hydrogel's injectability, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical properties.
• To assess the efficacy of GMOD in reducing bleeding and promoting wound healing.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized a double network hydrogel (GMOD) via Schiff base crosslinking of oxidized dextran and gelatin, incorporating dopamine.
• Evaluated hydrogel properties including injectability, mechanical strength, tissue adhesion, and biocompatibility.
• Assessed hemostatic efficacy in a mouse liver hemorrhage model and evaluated wound healing and anti-inflammatory effects with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) incorporation.

Main Results:

• GMOD demonstrated injectability, excellent biocompatibility, and biodegradability.
• The double network structure significantly enhanced tissue adhesion and cell adhesion (red blood cells, platelets).
• Achieved a 76% reduction in bleeding in a mouse liver hemorrhage model; VEGF incorporation promoted wound healing and reduced inflammation.

Conclusions:

• GMOD is a highly adhesive, injectable, and rapid hemostatic hydrogel with potential for intra-abdominal hemostasis.
• The mussel-inspired double network structure is key to its enhanced performance.
• Sustained VEGF release from GMOD supports wound healing and anti-inflammatory functions.