Highly stretchable, self-adhesive, and biocompatible cellulose/chitosan based double network hydrogel for wound...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Hydrogels offer flexibility and biocompatibility for skin regeneration but lack mechanical strength and adhesion.
• Limitations of traditional hydrogels hinder their effectiveness in wound healing applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a novel cellulose-based composite hydrogel with enhanced mechanical properties and self-adhesion for improved wound care.
• To evaluate the efficacy of the developed hydrogel in promoting skin regeneration and wound healing.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized a composite hydrogel using cellulose dialdehyde (DAC), carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS), and acrylamide (AM).
• Constructed a double network structure with dynamic Schiff base bonds and covalent bonds via free radical polymerization.
• Characterized mechanical properties (tensile strength, stretchability, toughness) and skin adhesion.
• Assessed biocompatibility and wound healing efficacy in a mouse model of full-thickness skin defects.

Main Results:

• The hydrogel achieved high tensile strength (>400 kPa), stretchability (>1400%), and toughness (>2900 kJ m⁻³).
• Demonstrated significant self-adhesion to skin (2.7 kPa).
• Exhibited excellent biocompatibility and accelerated wound healing in vivo.

Conclusions:

• The developed cellulose-based composite hydrogel overcomes limitations of traditional hydrogels.
• Its superior mechanical strength, adhesion, and biocompatibility make it a promising candidate for advanced wound care and skin regeneration therapies.
• This material addresses critical gaps in current hydrogel-based wound treatment technologies.