Injectable in situ-forming silk fibroin-based hydrogel dressing with MXene/polydeoxyribonucleotide for wound...

The search for effective tissue engineering materials for therapeutic purposes has led to the introduction and combination of various innovative biomaterials, such as MXene, and therapeutic agents. This study focused on the development of a hydrogel dressing that utilizes the unique properties of MXene and a polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) to enhance wound healing. The hydrogel, which comprised a silk fibroin and gelatin blend, was crosslinked using a visible light-activated ruthenium complex photoinitiator. MXene incorporation markedly improved the mechanical strength and antimicrobial activity of the hydrogel. In addition, MXene suppressed bacterial growth and facilitated the controlled release of PDRN under near-infrared irradiation. PDRN promoted cell migration, thereby accelerating in vitro and in vivo wound healing. The results of this study highlight the potential of a smart hydrogel system for applications in skin tissue engineering.