Antibacterial and angiogenic chitosan microneedle array patch for promoting wound healing

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Effective wound healing requires infection prevention and tissue remodeling.
• Chitosan is a biocompatible material with natural antibacterial properties beneficial for wound care.
• Microneedle arrays offer enhanced drug delivery and reduced skin adhesion compared to traditional patches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a chitosan microneedle array (CSMNA) patch with integrated smart drug delivery for improved wound healing.
• To utilize vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) encapsulated in a temperature-sensitive hydrogel for controlled drug release.
• To evaluate the CSMNA patch's efficacy in promoting wound closure and tissue regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a biomass chitosan microneedle array (CSMNA) patch.
• Encapsulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) within temperature-sensitive hydrogel micropores.
• In vitro and in vivo assessment of the CSMNA patch's performance in wound healing models.
• Evaluation of inflammatory response, collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and tissue regeneration.

Main Results:

• The CSMNA patch demonstrated effective delivery of VEGF via temperature-triggered release.
• Significant reduction in inflammation and promotion of collagen deposition were observed.
• Enhanced angiogenesis and accelerated tissue regeneration were evident in the treated wounds.
• The patch successfully avoided wound infection and promoted tissue remodeling.

Conclusions:

• The developed biomass CSMNA patch offers a versatile and effective approach for wound healing.
• Smart, responsive drug delivery via microneedles enhances therapeutic outcomes.
• This technology holds significant potential for clinical applications in wound management.