Development of an alginate-based bioink with enhanced hemostatic and antibacterial properties

Alginate, a recognized biosafe material with inherent hemostatic properties, has been widely explored for emergency hemostatic applications and wound dressings. However, advancements in crosslinking strategies and the integration of additional functionalities are essential to expand its clinical versatility. In this study, we report the development of a novel alginate-based bioink designed to address urgent clinical challenges posed by incompressible and irregular site bleeding. Our bioink, characterized by rapid photocrosslinking and sustained antibacterial effects, offers a promising solution for hemorrhage control and wound repair. The developed bioink, AL@FM, is an injectable photopolymerized alginate-based hydrogel incorporating functional modifiers (PVP, CMC, glycerol and epsilon-PL) that enhance its rapid hemostasis, antibacterial action, and wound healing properties, demonstrating exceptional biocompatibility in extensive in vitro and in vivo evaluations. AL@FM exhibits superior hemostatic efficiency compared to commercial controls, effectively accelerating wound contraction and angiogenesis, while displaying potent antibacterial properties and improved injectability. The integration of these multifaceted features into an alginate-based platform extends its applicability, particularly in the context of in situ 3D bioprinting where rapid gelation and immediate functionality are critical.