Self-regulating mechanical microenvironment cellulose-based hydrogels as living scar-free wound healing materials

The rising incidence of skin trauma demands advanced wound care materials. However, conventional PNIPAM hydrogels are hindered by slow thermoresponsive kinetics and weak mechanical strength. Inspired by phospholipid self-assembly and muscle tissue, we introduce a biomimetic thermosensitive hydrogel (WNM) composed of water-soluble cellulose acetate (WSCA), PNIPAM, and MXene nanosheets. Here, WSCA guides the self-assembly of PNIPAM and MXene into an ordered lamellar porous structure through synergistic hydrophobic-hydrophilic interactions and hydrogen bonding. This hierarchical structure boosts mechanical strength and accelerates thermal contraction by reducing mass-transfer resistance. WNM hydrogel generates active contractile forces, modulating the wound's mechanical environment to support tissue regeneration and scarless healing. The hydrogel also exhibits strong self-adhesion, biocompatibility, long antibacterial activity, and rapid drug release. Our study provides a versatile strategy for designing high-performance wound dressings with strong clinical potential.