Gels based on lipids and biopolymers that protect and heal

Our lab creates oleogels and hydrogels using lipids, proteins and polysaccharides. This talk will illustrate three examples of new gels from our lab.

First, in the case of lipids, we have found a new way to create lipid oleogels: combine the lipid with a simple salt in the oil. While salts are insoluble in pure oil, they can be dissolved in the presence of the lipid. Remarkably, we find that lipid organosols can be converted into oleogels by salts of multivalent cations such as calcium (Ca²⁺ ) or gadolinium (Gd³⁺).

In a second example, we have made hydrogels by combining gelatin and corn-starch granules. These hydrogels have viscoelastic properties that enable them to absorb impact. We will show that the gels are able to protect fragile or delicate objects (like eggs and fruit) from breaking or being crushed.   

The last example will home in on biopolymers with hydrophobic side-chains. We will show that these polymers convert blood from a liquid to a gel by hydrophobic interactions. In turn, the polymers act as ‘hemostatic agents’ and stop bleeding from injuries. This research has resulted in a commercial product to stop bleeding (Rapid-Seal Wound Gel) that is available in the USA.