Multifunctional hydrogel scaffolds loaded with peptides in promoting wound healing: A review

Peptide-loaded hydrogels have been extensively studied at present. Compared with traditional wound dressings such as gauze and bandages, they possess excellent biocompatibility, high drug-loading capacity, controlled drug release, and outstanding moisturizing properties. However, a comprehensive review focusing on peptide-based hydrogel bioadhesives for wound healing remains absent. This review explores the applications and mechanisms through which peptides and hydrogels facilitate wound healing. The use of peptide hydrogels has been shown to effectively enhance cell proliferation and migration, regulate inflammatory responses, accelerate collagen deposition and neovascularization, significantly shorten wound healing time, and improve healing outcomes. Peptides that promote wound healing include antimicrobial peptides, antioxidant peptides, antiviral peptides, and anticoagulant peptides, all of which contribute to enhancing the repair process and reducing the risk of infection. Furthermore, the hydrogel exhibits excellent physical stability and ease of use, presenting a promising new strategy for clinical wound management. Nevertheless, the application of hydrogels faces challenges such as inadequate mechanical properties and the need for further evaluation of biological safety. This study aims to establish a theoretical foundation for the application of multifunctional hydrogel scaffolds in promoting the wound healing process.