Development of Emodin Nanocrystal-Loaded Hydrogel Patch for Rapid Wound Repair

Wound healing is a complex and dynamic biological process involving multiple phases, including inflammation, proliferation, and tissue remodeling. Despite significant advances in therapeutic approaches, conventional wound healing treatments often suffer from limitations such as poor bioavailability of drugs, inadequate moisture retention, uncontrolled release profiles, and delayed tissue regeneration. To overcome these challenges, drug-loaded nanocrystals were incorporated into an alginate-based hydrogel matrix to develop a biocompatible and sustained-release wound dressing. Emodin, a natural anthraquinone compound with potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, was used as the therapeutic agent. The combination of emodin nanocrystals with the alginate hydrogel resulted in a synergistic effect, providing enhanced drug stability, controlled release, and accelerated tissue regeneration. The developed NCs-hydrogel composite demonstrates significant potential as an advanced wound dressing material, offering an effective and biocompatible platform for promoting rapid wound healing.