A novel protein-based patch developed through molecular self-assembly provides efficient and biodegradable solutions for rapid haemostasis.
Recent research highlights the development of a biocompatible and biodegradable protein-based patch, showcasing impressive haemostatic capabilities to address uncontrolled bleeding, which remains a primary cause of trauma-related fatalities.
Uncontrolled haemorrhage accounts for over 30% of trauma-related deaths, underscoring the urgency for rapidly deployable and effective hemostatic solutions. Current materials may pose limitations such as slow clotting rates, inadequate mechanical strength, or compromised performance under humid conditions. Addressing these issues, researchers at Zhejiang University have developed a novel patch utilizing fibrinogen modified with hydrophobic groups, employing molecular self-assembly strategies to improve its properties.
The study reveals how the dry protein patch can effectively adhere to wet tissues, enhancing sealing performance with minimal interference from body fluids. The researchers employed dry cross-linking techniques to induce strong intra- and inter-molecular interactions, thereby ensuring the patch maintains its usability even as it degrades biologically. Notably, the patch successfully sealed both porcine oozing wounds and severe acute hemorrhages.
"This self-assembly protein patch made from hydrophobic group modified fibrinogen... demonstrates strong intra/inter-molecular interactions of protein molecules, facilitating..." said the authors of the study, reflecting on the innovative nature of their work.
Prior to this discovery, existing solutions posed safety risks, either through toxicity or insufficient adhesion and biodegradability. Conventional bioadhesives like BioGlue® and cyanoacrylate struggled to perform reliably alongside biological tissues, especially within moist environments. By exploring the molecular dynamics and interaction of the modified fibrinogen, the new patch presents significant advantages. The patch, with its rapid adhesion and sealing capabilities, showed strong performance even compared to current leading products like Combat Gauze® and TachoSil®.
Evaluations under experimental conditions highlighted superior mechanical properties and adhesion strength compared to previously established fibrin-based sealants. For example, the new patch showed remarkable adhesion capabilities with high tensile and shear strength, even under blood exposure—a level of performance unattainable by existing products.
"...efficient haemostatic sealing in both porcine oozing wound and porcine severe acute haemorrhage," the researchers noted, signaling strong potential for future clinical applications.
The study's findings not only bolster the case for protein-based hydrogels but also propose them as promising candidates for surgical tissue sealing applications. While maintaining biological functionality, the patch is capable of gradually degrading within the body, making it safer for long-term use.
With its innovative design and effective performance, this dry cross-linking protein patch highlights significant advancements in the field of trauma care and surgical procedures. Future research will likely focus on assessing the patch’s performance across broader clinical settings, refining the technology for even more effective applications.