Enhanced Hemostatic Performance of Tranexamic Acid-Loaded ChitosanAlginate Composite Microparticles

Abstract EN

Novel microparticles based on chitosan and sodium alginate were prepared using emulsification and cross-linking technologies.

The spherical microparticles had a porous surface and a diameter of 2~40 μm.

In simulated body fluid, these microparticles quickly swelled but gradually degraded.

The results of the MTT assay revealed that a slight inhibition of cell proliferation was observed on day 2 and then gradually decreased afterward.

No cell morphology changes were observed.

By loading tranexamic acid, the hemostatic performance of the microparticles was obviously improved.

Using fast-acting styptic powder (Flashclot) as the control, the hemostatic efficiency was investigated in rabbits using a liver transection bleeding model.

It was found that both Flashclot and the microparticles achieved hemostasis in 3.07±0.84 min and 2.48±0.88 min, respectively; however, the tranexamic acid-loaded microparticles stopped the bleeding in 1.90±0.75 min (P<0.05).

Additionally, Flashclot resulted in heat injury to the experimental livers, while the microparticles did not.

Thus, with their biodegradability, safety, and superior hemostatic efficiency, tranexamic acid-loaded microparticles might be a promising new powdered hemostatic agent with a wide range of potential applications.