Hierarchically cross-linked Gelatin/Tannic acid/Laponite hybrid antimicrobial hydrogel for hemostatic dressings

Abstract

The development of ideal hemostatic materials is of great significance in accelerating wound healing and reducing patient pain. However, the current hemostatic materials mostly have a single effect, making it difficult to simultaneously address bacterial infection and exudate leakage issues during the hemostasis process. In this paper, gelatin/tannic acid/Laponite (GTL) hemostatic hydrogels with excellent mechanical and antimicrobial properties were prepared. The synergistic hierarchical cross-linking structure of Laponite and tannic acid endowed the hydrogel with satisfactory mechanical properties, including elongation at break (360%) and modulus of elasticity (10.9 kPa) comparable to that of isolated skin. Besides, the introduction of Laponite effectively controlled the release amount and rate of tannic acid, providing excellent biocompatibility of the material. Moreover, the GTL hydrogel exhibited ideal antimicrobial effect and good inhibition against both E. coli and S. aureus. Notably, this hydrogel showed an in vitro coagulation index of 15.7% and had good blood coagulation performance and excellent cell adhesion, making it promising for use as a hemostatic antimicrobial dressing.