Multifunctional Dynamic Hydrogel Based on a Micelle-Cross-Linked Chitosan Network for Infected Wound Healing.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Wound Healing Research

Background:

• Hydrogel dressings are crucial for wound healing but often lack multifunctionality.
• There is an urgent need for advanced hydrogels with biocompatibility, self-healing, adhesiveness, and therapeutic effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a multifunctional hydrogel dressing with enhanced wound healing capabilities.
• To investigate the properties and efficacy of a novel chitosan/Pluronic hydrogel for infected and inflammatory skin wounds.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized aldehyde-modified Pluronic-F127 (AF127) micelles and dihydrocaffeic acid-functionalized chitosan (CA).
• Created hydrogels via dynamic Schiff base cross-linking between AF127 and CA.
• Loaded hydrophobic rhein into AF127 micelles for anti-inflammatory effects.

Main Results:

• The developed CA/AF hydrogel exhibited superior antioxidant, adhesive, self-healing, and antibacterial properties.
• Rhein-loaded hydrogels demonstrated pH-responsive drug release and potent anti-inflammatory effects.
• In vivo studies showed accelerated tissue regeneration, improved collagen deposition, and enhanced angiogenesis in infected wound models.

Conclusions:

• The versatile chitosan/Pluronic hydrogels possess intrinsic antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
• These hydrogels hold significant potential for treating infected and chronic inflammatory wounds.
• The developed material offers a promising platform for advanced wound care applications.