Bioinspired Mucilage-Derived Adhesives Reinforced With L-Lysine Functionalized Ceo2 Nanozymes for Enhanced Hemostasis and Wound Healing: An in Vitro and in Vivo Assessment Publisher



Mokhtarbaf R ; Nasab S Z ; Ghaee A ; Tafti S M A ; Dehkordi A K ; Peyvastenejad M
Source: Chemical Engineering Journal Published:2026

Abstract

The revolutionary role of (bio)adhesives in achieving rapid hemostasis and wound healing highlights the need for multifunctional dressings that actively regulate the wound microenvironment. In this study, we developed a novel psyllium mucilage-based hydrogel (bio)adhesive inspired by mussel byssus adhesion chemistry, which leverages the synergy between phenolic groups and lysine residues. The hydrogel was fabricated by incorporating L-lysine-functionalized CeO2 nanoparticles (L-CeO2 NPs) via microbial transglutaminase (mTGase)-catalyzed transamidation, creating stable isopeptide bonds by linking the glutamine residues of the psyllium matrix with the L-lysine groups on the CeO2 nanozymes. The resulting hydrogel exhibited strong tissue adhesion (17.3 ± 2.4 kPa) and a high burst pressure (24 ± 2.5 cmHg), confirming its structural integrity under internal stress. Functionally, the (bio)adhesive provided O2 supply through catalase-mimicking activity and offered protection against oxidative stress via non-enzymatic radical scavenging and UV-shielding activity. It demonstrated extensive antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (99.99%) and Staphylococcus aureus (87%), alongside superior blood compatibility and pronounced coagulation activity. In vivo assessment in rat liver and tail amputation models showed significantly reduced blood loss and shorter clotting time. In a full-thickness skin wound model, the 3% w/w L-CeO2 NP hydrogel promoted wound closure, enhanced collagen deposition, and suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines. This treatment guided a phased healing response, stimulating angiogenesis in the early stages and triggering extracellular matrix remodeling in the later phase, ultimately leading to scarless wound healing. This synergistic integration of bioactive L-CeO2 nanozymes and advanced (bio)adhesive functionality offers a promising next-generation wound dressing with high translational potential. © 2026 Elsevier B.V.