Smart hydrogels for rapid wound repair: Chitosan-PVP matrices empowered by bimetallic MOF nanocages

In wound treatment, sustainable and effective dressings are crucial for rapid healing without scarring. Antimicrobial transparent hydrogel dressings were fabricated by grafting chitosan with polyvinyl pyrrolidone and impregnating it with zinc or zinc-silver metal-organic framework nanocages (30-50 nm). Characterization confirmed the hydrogels' excellent physical and chemical integrity. Comprehensive antibacterial, antifungal, and ion-release evaluations validated their efficacy, demonstrating remarkable results. These dressings also promoted a moisture-balanced environment ideal for wound healing. Comprehensive evaluations of these hydrogel dressings' antibacterial, antifungal, and ion-release properties confirmed their efficacy, demonstrating remarkable results. The dressings also promoted a moisture-balanced environment optimal for wound healing. Cytotoxicity tests on skin cells indicated that the hydrogels were safe and enhanced cell proliferation. Notably, CS/PVP hydrogels with bimetallic nanocages (CS/PVP4) achieved up to 69 % healing within 7 days. This rapid healing occurred due to the reduction of inflammation and IL-1 content in the dermis; the downregulation of MMP9 halted the breakdown of the extracellular matrix (ECM); the upregulation of TGF accelerated cell growth and raised the levels of collagen 1 and -SMA in the ECM. These findings suggest that the developed hydrogel dressings will provide sustainable wound healing, thereby increasing patient satisfaction.