Bioinspired hydrogels for infectious and diabetic wound healing: Therapeutic strategies and innovations

Several challenges in wound healing are addressed using hydrogels. Hydrogel supports new tissue formation and facilitates cell migration as it provides a moist environment at the wound site. Such moist conditions are ideal for faster recovery of injuries. In diabetic wounds, the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) is compromised, which delays the healing process. Hydrogels can be used to mimic the natural ECM. In bacterial-infected wounds, antibiotic resistance is a growing problem that can delay healing. Antibacterial agents, anti-inflammatory drugs, and growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) can be incorporated into hydrogels. Such hydrogels are useful for controlled drug release that can help overcome antibacterial resistance. Hydrogels are well known for their flexibility, therefore can be applied to irregular wound sites, providing effective contact with the wound and ensuring better recovery. All these factors make hydrogels a promising class of wound dressings.