Multifunctional Nanoclay‐Based Hemostatic Materials for Wound Healing: A Review

Bleeding to death accounts for around 30-40% of all trauma-related fatalities. Current hemostatic materials are mainly mono-functional or have insufficient hemostatic capacity. Nanoclay has been recently shown to accelerate hemostasis, improve wound healing, and provide the resulting multifunctional hemostatic materials antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and healing-promoting due to its distinctive morphological structure and physicochemical properties. Herein, the chemical design and action mechanism of nanoclay-based hemostatic, antibacterial, and pro-wound healing materials in the context of wound healing are discussed. The physiological processes of hemostasis and wound healing to elucidate the significance of nanoclay for functional wound hemostatic dressing design are outlined. A summary of the features of various nanoclay and product types used in wound hemostatic dressings is provided. Nanoclay can be antimicrobial due to the slow release of metal ions and has an abundant surface charge allowing for high affinity for proteins and cells, which can activate the coagulation reaction or facilitate tissue repair. Nanoclay with a microporous structure can be used as drug carriers to create composites critical for inhibiting bacterial growth on wounds or promoting the regeneration of vascular, muscle, and skin tissues. Directions for further research and innovation of nanoclay-based multifunctional materials for hemostasis and tissue regeneration are explored.