Natural polymer-derived hydrogel as an emerging hemostatic strategy

Rapid and effective bleeding control is critical for preventing circulatory shock and improving patient survival. Compared with conventional hemostatic materials such as gauze and patches, hydrogels have gained increasing attention in hemorrhage management owing to their excellent biocompatibility, high water retention, and superior wound sealing capabilities. Among them, natural polymer-derived hydrogels are particularly promising for clinical applications, as their inherent biological components enable the formation of extracellular matrix-mimicking networks that promote tissue integration and healing. In this review, recent advances in natural polymer-based hydrogels for hemostatic applications are summarized in detail. First, the hemostatic mechanisms of these hydrogels are discussed from both physicochemical and physiological perspectives. Next, representative hydrogels derived from natural polysaccharides and proteins are systematically classified and reviewed, and current challenges and future opportunities for the clinical translation of natural polymer-based hemostatic hydrogels are highlighted.