Thermosensitive hydrogels containing polylimonene for hemostatic use

• Grant number: 25/00851-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: January 05, 2026
• End date: March 04, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Chemical Engineering - Chemical Technology
• Principal Investigator: Roniérik Pioli Vieira
• Grantee: Pedro Zanqueta Tanajura
• Supervisor: Roberta Maia Sabino
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia Química (FEQ). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: University of Wyoming (UW), United States
• Associated to the scholarship: 24/13707-0 - Investigation of the use of polysorbates for the stabilization of oil-in-water emulsions containing terpenes/oligoterpenes, BP.IC

Abstract

Blood loss from traumatic injuries is one of the leading causes of death in severe accidents and surgical procedures. Despite the widespread use of fibrin-based dressings specifically designed for such situations, these materials face limitations, such as fragility, low absorption capacity, and insufficient sealing. In this context, temperature-sensitive hydrogels emerge as a promising alternative, capable of releasing coagulation factors and providing effective sealing, thus enhancing hemostasis in critical situations. In this overseas research stage, the aim is to develop thermosensitive hydrogels based on poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(propylene oxide)-b-poly(ethylene oxide) containing polylimonene, targeting rapid hemostatic application in accident or surgical situations. Emulsions containing these polymers will be prepared by ultrasound or high-pressure homogenization, and the formulations will be lyophilized to obtain microparticles. The sol-gel transition in dispersions prepared from these particles will be evaluated under physiological conditions through viscosimetry. Finally, the hemostatic potential of the hydrogels will be assessed through platelet activation and adhesion tests. The expectation is to verify whether polylimonene positively contributes to the hemostasis of the hydrogels. (AU)