Thermosensitive hydrogel for enhanced burn wound healing: Oxygen and exosome co-delivery to overcome hypoxia-induced...

Burns are a common and challenging clinical issue, often hindered by severe inflammation, insufficient angiogenesis, and chronic hypoxia. Although exosomes derived from adipose tissue-derived stem cells have shown substantial potential in promoting wound healing by transporting therapeutic growth factors and miRNAs, their delivery is compromised in hypoxic tissues due to the hypoxia-induced inhibition of cellular endocytic recycling. To address this challenge, we developed a strategy using perfluorocarbons to transport oxygen and incorporate it into a thermosensitive hydrogel. This approach creates a hyperoxic environment at the wound site, providing an effective means of delivering exosomes to overcome hypoxic conditions. The hydrogel maintains a moist microenvironment, adhering well to the affected area, allowing sustained release of encapsulated oxygen and exosomes until the next debridement and dressing change. We demonstrated the potential of this multifunctional thermosensitive hydrogel to reduce oxidative stress caused by hypoxia, may promote exosome delivery, enhance angiogenesis, and facilitate healing. These benefits were validated using a male rat burn model, further confirming the efficacy of the novel hydrogel system.