Recent developments in polysaccharide-based conductive hydrogels: A review and perspective

Polysaccharides, as naturally occurring, bioactive, and environmentally degradable polymers, have garnered increasing attention in the development of hydrogel materials. Their remarkable electrical conductivity and outstanding biocompatibility have led to numerous applications for polysaccharide-derived conductive hydrogels in the field of wound healing. This review highlights recent advancements in this area, beginning with an overview of polysaccharide-based conductive hydrogel materials, which include chitosan-based, cellulose-based, starch-based, cyclodextrin-based, alginate-based, and hyaluronic acid-based conductive hydrogels. Furthermore, the review discusses the key characteristics of these hydrogels. Representative applications of polysaccharide-based conductive hydrogels at various stages of wound healing are summarized, including antibacterial effects during the inflammatory phase, promotion of cell migration and proliferation, and applications in scar repair. Finally, the review addresses current challenges and provides guidance for future research, aiming to advance the field of polysaccharide-based conductive hydrogels in wound healing.