Photo-Activated Cu-ZIF-8 Integrated Sprayable Hydrogels for Accelerated Wound Healing

To address the growing challenge of antibiotic-resistant infections in wound healing, we developed a multifunctional hydrogel dressing (Nar@Cu_15%ZIF-8@Hydrogel) combining the natural flavonoid naringenin (Nar) with copper-doped ZIF-8 nanoparticles. Nar provides anti-inflammatory and proangiogenic effects, while Cu-doped ZIF-8 enhances reactive oxygen species (ROS) production under near-infrared (NIR) light, enabling synergistic photodynamic and photothermal antibacterial therapy. These particles were embedded in a thermosensitive poloxamer hydrogel, offering excellent biocompatibility, sprayability, and in situ gelation. The composite dressing achieved over 90% antibacterial efficiency against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, significantly promoted cell migration (66.7% at 24 h), and showed low cytotoxicity. In vivo, it accelerated wound healing (99.91% on day 10), reduced inflammation (increased tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) expression), and enhanced angiogenesis (CD31 fluorescence up to 154.7). This rationally designed dressing combines targeted antibacterial action with regenerative capacity, presenting a promising strategy for treating infected wounds.