Fast expandable polysaccharide-based cryogel derived from mushroom for noncompressible bleeding

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine
• Wound Healing

Background:

• Conventional hemostatic sponges often use energy-intensive methods and toxic chemicals.
• There is a need for effective hemostatic agents for non-compressible and inaccessible wounds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To engineer a novel porous hemostatic sponge from mushroom biomass.
• To evaluate the hemostatic efficacy and biocompatibility of the mushroom-derived sponge.

Main Methods:

• Mushroom biomass was processed into a chitin/glucan-based cryogel (CG cryogel) using deproteinization, freezing, ethanol exchange, and compression-assisted drying.
• The CG cryogel's water absorption, volume expansion, and hemocompatibility were assessed.
• Hemostatic efficacy was evaluated in non-compressible rat liver injury models.

Main Results:

• The CG cryogel demonstrated high water absorption (1503%) and rapid volume expansion.
• It effectively aggregated red blood cells and platelets, accelerating coagulation.
• The CG cryogel showed superior hemostatic performance compared to commercial agents in rat models.
• Excellent cytocompatibility and hemocompatibility were confirmed.

Conclusions:

• The mushroom-derived CG cryogel is a promising, biocompatible hemostatic agent.
• This novel biomaterial offers an effective solution for uncontrolled hemorrhage management.
• The findings support the clinical application of CG cryogel for wound healing.