ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:Chitosan (CS) holding a good biocompatibility, biodegradability, antibacterial property and hemostasis effect cannot only promote wound healing and tissue repair, but also exhibit sustained-control release when carrying berberine hydrochloride (Bh). Therefore it functions as an excellent antibacterial and hemostatic material. OBJECTIVE:To prepare the porous CS/Bh composite xerogel and observe its antibacterial and hemostatic properties. METHODS:The porous CS/Bh composite xerogel was prepared using freeze-drying method, and its microstructure was characterized by scanning electron microscope and Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. The biocompatibility was detected through MTT assay and the in vitro antibacterial and hemostatic properties were observed through antibacterial test and blood clotting index. RESULTS AND COCNLUSION:The porosity of the CS/Bh composite xerogel was 83.1%-90.5%and almost degraded after 72 hours of immersion in PBS. The in vitro antibacterial and hemostatic properties of the composite xerogel were significantly better than those of CS, which were enhanced with the Bh content increasing. Additionally, the CS/Bh (10%) composite xerogel showed the best hemostatic and antibacterial abilities in vitro. To conclude, the CS/Bh composite xerogel possesses a good biocompatibility and strong hemostatic and antibacterial abilities, which is a promising postoperative antibacterial and hemostatic material.