A quaternized chitin derivatives, egg white protein and montmorillonite composite sponge with antibacterial and hemostatic effect for promoting wound healing

In this study, we prepared an all-natural substances based sponge (EMQS) consist of egg white protein (EW), quaternized chitin derivatives (QCs) and montmorillonite (MMT). Inspired by the cuisine method of pastry, EW was separated from yolk and mechanically stirred vigorously to generate fluffy and porous foam. The incorporation of MMT enhanced the mechanical properties (a compressive strength of 0.126 MPa), as well as the hemostatic effect of the sponge (hemostasis time of 49.7 ± 8.0 s in a liver injury model). The QCs improved the antimicrobial activities of EMQS against Escherichia coli (E.Coli) and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus ( MRSA ) . The 3D porous structure of EMQS, coming with beneficial properties including high porosity (84.8%), water uptake ability of 675.3 g/g and water vapor transmission rate satisfied the requirements for soft-tissue-engineering applications. QCs interacted with MMT via hydrogen bonding and electronical interaction so that it served as a sustainable drug release system at wound site with excellent antibacterial activity. Three full-thickness skin defect models of BALB/c mice indicated that this sponge could effectively shorten the healing time and accelerate the angiogenesis and collagen deposition of uninfected, E.Coli and MRSA infected wounds in comparison with commercial dressings. Hence, this all-natural substances based sponge with antibacterial property and hemostatic effect had a great potential as a clinical dressing for skin regeneration. • A quaternized chitin, egg white protein and montmorillonite sponge was prepared. • The sponge showed high porosity and good water uptake ability. • The sponge displayed excellent antibacterial activity and hemostatic ability. • The sponge could significantly accelerate E.coli and MRSA infected wounds healing.