Innovative Biocompatible Sealant Offers Superior Healing for Soft Organ Injuries

Researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles and the University of California, San Diego have developed a groundbreaking injectable hydrogel that functions as a highly effective sealant for soft, elastic organs such as lungs, heart, and blood vessels. Unlike traditional sutures or staples, this novel patch provides rapid hemostasis and strong tissue adhesion, making it particularly useful in dynamic tissues prone to movement.

The hydrogel is formulated using methacryloyl-modified human recombinant tropoelastin (MeTro) combined with Laponite silicate nanoplatelets (SNs). Preclinical studies demonstrated that this combination significantly enhances the sealant's ability to adhere to tissues and control bleeding. It outperforms existing products by offering greater mechanical strength and flexibility, essential for tissues that expand, contract, or move constantly.

Injury models involving arteries in rats and lung punctures in pigs showed that the hydrogel could effectively prevent blood loss, maintain tissue integrity, and promote healing without provoking an inflammatory response. The hydrogel's adhesiveness was evaluated through various tests, including burst pressure measurements and clotting time assessments, confirming its superior performance compared to conventional sealants.

The hydrogel's biocompatibility was verified through histological analysis showing minimal immune response and tissue damage. Its ability to rapidly stop bleeding, combined with its flexibility and strong adhesion, suggests it has significant potential for use in emergency and surgical settings, especially in cases where traditional methods are ineffective.

This technology represents a major step forward in soft tissue repair, offering a more effective and biocompatible alternative to existing surgical sealants. Ongoing research aims to further optimize its properties for potential clinical applications, promising improved outcomes for patients with traumatic injuries or surgical wounds.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-biocompatible-patch-soft-injuries.html