Structural characterization of a fructan from Kalimeris indica and its efficacy in accelerating wound healing

Polysaccharides have demonstrated potential as wound dressings. Kalimeris indica (KI) is a traditional Chinese medicinal known for its multiple pharmacological effects, with polysaccharide being one of its main bioactive components. However, the wound-healing effects and mechanisms of KI-derived polysaccharides in wound healing remain unexplored. Here, we isolated and purified a homogeneous polysaccharide (KIP-W) from the plant, and hypothesized that KI-derived polysaccharides exert therapeutic effects on wound healing. Structural characterization indicated that KIP-W is a fructan with a main chain of →1)-β-D-Fruf-(2→. A composite hydrogel (KIP-W/CBM/CMC) was developed using KIP-W, carboxymethyl 940 (CBM), and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). The hydrogel exhibited favorable physicochemical properties, including optimal porosity, controlled degradability, and sustained release behavior. In vitro studies indicated that KIP-W promoted the proliferation and migration of HUVECs, and induced macrophage polarization from M1 to M2 phenotype. In vivo evaluation using a full-thickness skin wound model in mice demonstrated that the KIP-W/CBM/CMC hydrogels accelerated wound closure and enhanced re-epithelialization. Furthermore, the hydrogels promoted collagen deposition-stimulated angiogenesis, enabling complete regeneration of thick dermal and epidermal tissues, with partial restoration of hair follicles. Overall, these findings indicate that KIP-W/CBM/CMC hydrogels represent are promising, and cost-effective, wound dressings strategy, expand the potential applications of the fructan KIP-W.