New generation bandages from marine algae can stop internal bleeding in minutes

The new bandage will be injected directly into the area near the wound, and immediately activate the local coagulation mechanism and stop bleeding within 3 minutes.

Internal bleeding due to being hit or traffic accident, occupational accident . is one of the leading causes of death if the patient is not stopped bleeding in time. Because of this, the scientists have been very determined to launch intravenous gauze products.

Recently, a team of researchers at Texas A&M University has invented a completely new 'ambulance' solution that can inject directly into the area near the wound and prevent internal bleeding after only 3 minutes. This drug is made from compounds derived from seaweed and clay nanoparticles.

Red seaweed contains k-carrageenan.

These ingredients combine to form a hydrogel - a compound that is highly absorbable and has the same effect as a bandage.

"This hydrogel solution promises to be a useful ingredient in hemostasis and first aid for internal wounds," the team said. Besides, these biological components can be inserted into the wound by minimally invasive.

The key component of this drug is k-carrageenan derived from a type of red algae. This algae is often used as a substance to concentrate many types of food.

In the previous study of gelatin, the researchers discovered that hydrogels could be enhanced using nano silicate substances. Silicate nanoparticles in clay can improve the structure of hydrogels and form a frame, like a bandage that has coagulated and sealed the wound.

When tested on animal cells and human tissue in the laboratory, this drug causes blood clotting in less than 3 minutes.

When tested on animal cells and human tissue in the laboratory, this drug causes blood clotting in less than 3 minutes.

Biomedical engineer Akhilesh K. Gaharwar, a member of the research team, explains: "The ideal ambulance solution needs to freeze immediately after injection into the wound and promote the formation of natural blood clots."

The team also found a significant improvement in tissue regeneration and injury recovery. More importantly, nanoparticles can also transfer drugs to injured areas and slowly release to the body when necessary.

So far, this compound has not been tested on human wounds. Researchers are still continuing to improve to soon bring this bandage to the pharmaceutical stockpile of hospitals.

This study is published in Acta Biomaterialia.