A Janus supramolecular hydrogel prepared by one-pot method for wound dressing

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Adhesive hydrogels are crucial for clinical applications, but smart materials with on-demand detachment remain a challenge.
• Gelatin's thermal phase transition offers a mechanism for developing responsive hydrogels.
• Current smart hydrogels often lack controllable adhesion and detachment for versatile medical use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize a Janus supramolecular hydrogel with skin temperature-triggered adhesion and on-demand detachment.
• To evaluate the hydrogel's mechanical properties, adhesion characteristics, and wound healing efficacy.
• To explore the potential of this novel hydrogel for advanced wound management.

Main Methods:

• A one-pot synthesis of a Janus supramolecular hydrogel utilizing gelatin's thermal phase transition.
• Characterization of hydrogel mechanical performance (compressive strain, MPa).
• In vivo assessment of wound healing efficiency in full-thickness skin models.

Main Results:

• The synthesized hydrogel exhibits asymmetric, controllable adhesion and on-demand detachment triggered by skin temperature within seconds.
• Demonstrated excellent mechanical properties (65% compressive strain, 1.38 MPa) due to supramolecular interactions.
• Achieved high wound healing efficiency (98.45%) with significant antibacterial activity and biocompatibility.

Conclusions:

• The Janus supramolecular hydrogel dressing offers a promising solution for smart wound management.
• Its unique temperature-triggered adhesion and detachment capabilities, combined with mechanical strength and biocompatibility, facilitate efficient skin wound healing.
• This hydrogel holds significant potential for clinical applications in treating skin injuries.