Hydrogel-Based Nitric Oxide Delivery Systems for Enhanced Wound Healing

Oxidative stress in hypoxic conditions impairs the regenerative process in chronic wounds, highlighting the potential of reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavengers to accelerate wound healing. Nitric oxide (NO) in particular plays a pivotal role as an endogenous gasotransmitter and as a signaling molecule involved in regulating hypoxia. In this review, we examine hydrogel-based wound healing strategies for delivering gaseous NO molecules stably to the wound site. As carriers of NO donors, these hydrogels facilitate the controlled and sustained release of NO and offer high biocompatibility and hydrophilicity. First, we first introduce the hypoxic physiology of chronic wounds and elucidate the beneficial and detrimental effects of ROS. In addition, we discuss the role of NO in angiogenesis and the wound healing process. Finally, we review various NO donors and their incorporation into hydrogels for therapeutic applications. Given the extensive use of hydrogels in wound healing, this review will provide valuable avenues for the consideration of new functional hydrogels in regenerative treatments.