Biocompatible Bletilla striata polysaccharide-based hemostatic sponges enhance wound healing and reduce the risk for infections

Abstract

Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP) is an extract derived from the rare and valuable Chinese herb Bletilla striata [Thunb.] Reichb. f. Although BSP research has progressed considerably, producing portable BSP dressings with hemostatic efficacy remains challenging. This study describes a novel dressing with a reticulate structure. To create this structure, BSP sponges were cross-linked with chitosan and lyophilized. The resulting BSP sponges had excellent mechanical properties, a high density of pores, and an outstanding capacity for fluid absorption. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that the BSP sponges had excellent hemostatic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties; they also exhibited good stimulation of cell growth and wound healing properties. Furthermore, they were less likely to provoke complications than traditional materials. Cytocompatibility assays revealed that they also stimulated cell proliferation. Therefore, our study suggests that BSP sponges have promising clinical applications as wound dressings.