A metal-polyphenol microcapsule functionalized hydrogel for effective hemostasis

Chitosan, as a natural polysaccharide, is widely used in the field of hemostasis. However, its inherent limitations such as poor mechanical strength and difficulty in dissolving under alkaline conditions restrict the broader application. This study designed a glycidyl methacrylate-modified carboxymethyl chitosan (M-CMCS) photo-crosslinked hydrogel, incorporating metal-polyphenol network (MPN) microcapsules. The integration of these microcapsules functionalized the hydrogel, enhancing its hemostatic and mechanical properties while imparting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities. The hydrogel demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and hemostatic efficacy, promoting the formation of stable blood clots, and had significant potential as a clinically relevant hemostatic material.