Hydrogel Dressing Biomaterial Enriched with Vitamin C: Synthesis and Characterization

Area of Science:

• Materials Engineering
• Biomaterials Science
• Wound Healing Research

Background:

• Hydrogel dressings are crucial in treating challenging wounds.
• Incorporating bioactive substances like vitamin C enhances healing potential.
• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) possesses known skin repair and supportive properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate novel hydrogel biomaterials fortified with ascorbic acid.
• To assess the efficacy of these hydrogel dressings as a delivery system for vitamin C in wound care.
• To investigate the impact of vitamin C incorporation on the physical and thermal properties of hydrogel dressings.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of four distinct hydrogel dressing formulations with varying vitamin C incorporation.
• Comparative analysis of vitamin C release profiles from different dressing layers.
• Mechanical testing including compressive strength and force-induced shortening.
• Thermal stability assessment across a temperature range (18°C–60°C).

Main Results:

• Hydrogel dressings containing vitamin C exhibited enhanced compressive strength and reduced deformation under force.
• Slower vitamin C ion release was observed when incorporated in deeper layers of the dressing.
• The dressings demonstrated excellent thermal stability between 18°C and 60°C.
• Increased vitamin C content correlated with a higher specific heat value.

Conclusions:

• Hydrogel dressings incorporating vitamin C are mechanically superior and thermally stable.
• These vitamin C-enriched hydrogels facilitate controlled local delivery of ascorbic acid.
• The developed dressings represent a promising therapeutic option for promoting the healing of difficult-to-heal wounds.