Multifunctional shape-memory BER@GBP sponges for rapid non-compressible hemostasis and accelerated wound healing

Non-compressible hemorrhage is a critical factor affecting survival in traumatic situations, but it is difficult to effectively control it with the existing traditional hemostatic materials. In this study, shape-memory Gel-BSP-PDA (GBP) sponges were fabricated using Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP) and gelatin via polydopamine cross-linking and then loaded with berberine (BER) to form BER@GBP sponges, which serve as anti-infective and hemostatic materials. Benefiting from the inherent structural characteristics and procoagulant activity of BSP, the BER@GBP sponges not only exhibited suitable mechanical properties, high porosity, and good hydrophilicity but also promoted blood cell aggregation and platelet activation; therefore, they can be filled into irregular cavities to exert hemostatic effects. In addition, nearly 100% antibacterial activity and over 80% free radical (ABTS, DPPH, and hydroxyl radicals) scavenging capacity of the sponge arising from the loaded BER are helpful for minimizing the likelihood of wound infection and inflammation. As a result, the BER@GBP sponges ceased the bleeding behavior rapidly in three animal models with approximately 80% reduction in blood loss within 100 s and achieved complete wound recovery within 14 days while maintaining excellent biocompatibility throughout the therapeutic course. Overall, the BER@GBP sponges manifest great potential in non-compressible bleeding wound treatments for comprehensive wound management without removal.