Application of PH-responsive multifunctional hydrogel in rapid hemostasis and repair of infected wounds

Objective: To construct a multi-functional Ph-responsive hydrogel loaded with tannic acid, and explore its hemostatic function and promoting the repair of infected wounds, and initially explore the related mechanism of hydrogel promoting the repair of infected wounds. Method: Ph-responsive multifunctional hydrogels were composed of carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS), Konjac oxide (OKGM) and tannic acid (TA). CMCS and OKGM were able to form Ph-responsive hydrogels with dynamic covalent bonds through Schiff base reaction. TA could enhance the antibacterial and mechanical properties of the hydrogels. The biocompatibility, blood compatibility and functional evaluation (antioxidant, antibacterial and hemostatic properties) of CMCS-OKGM@TA hydrogel were tested in vitro. Meanwhile, cellular function experiments related to wound healing were performed. The effects of CMCS-OKGM@TA hydrogel on inflammation regulation, vascularization and epithelialization of infected wounds in BALB/C mice were investigated under in vivo conditions. Transcriptomic sequencing was performed on skin tissues of infected wounds in mice to screen relevant pathways for mechanism study, providing new ideas for treatment of infected wounds. Results: Due to Schiff base reaction and hydrogen bonding, the compound could rapidly absorb liquid components, form gel and adhere to the tear, showing rapid liver hemostasis and tail hemostasis. The polyphenol groups of TA make the hydrogel have good antibacterial and scavenging properties of active oxygen free radicals. In addition, the hydrogel has good biocompatibility in vitro cytotoxicity, blood compatibility test and in vivo toxicity test. Finally, in vivo experiments showed that the hydrogel showed significant bacteriostasis and promoting wound healing. Conclusion: The multifunctional hydrogel has the ability of rapid hemostasis and bacteriostasis, and can be widely used in acute bleeding caused by trauma and as wound dressing to prevent bacterial infection.