Compound Microalgae-Type Biofunctional Hydrogel for Wound Repair during Full-Thickness Skin Injuries

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Wound Healing

Background:

• Full-layer skin defects pose significant clinical challenges.
• Existing wound dressings often lack comprehensive biofunctional properties.
• Advanced materials are needed to promote efficient skin regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a dual biofunctional hydrogel (HQCS-SP) for full-layer skin defect repair.
• To evaluate the hydrogel's antibacterial, antioxidant, and pro-angiogenesis capabilities.
• To assess the hydrogel's efficacy in promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of HQCS-SP hydrogel via crosslinking modified chitosan (HQCS) with spirulina protein (SP) and Fe3+.
• Characterization of hydrogel properties including antibacterial activity, antioxidant capacity, self-healing, and hemostasis.
• In vitro and in vivo evaluation of the hydrogel's performance in promoting cell recruitment, ECM deposition, and wound healing.

Main Results:

• The HQCS-SP hydrogel demonstrated potent antibacterial and antioxidant activities.
• Exceptional tissue affinity, robust self-healing, and effective hemostatic capabilities were observed.
• The hydrogel significantly accelerated wound healing by facilitating cell recruitment and extracellular matrix deposition.
• Spirulina protein incorporation enhanced anti-inflammatory and pro-angiogenesis effects.

Conclusions:

• The developed HQCS-SP hydrogel is a promising advanced functional trauma dressing.
• Its dual biofunctional properties offer significant potential for treating full-layer skin defects.
• This study provides a new perspective for designing innovative wound healing materials.