Innovative microneedle-integrated hydrogels: a promising strategy for diabetic foot ulcer management

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a common and severe complication in diabetic patients, characterized by prolonged wound healing, susceptibility to infection, and a high risk of amputation. Its complex pathophysiology involves persistent hyperglycemia, chronic inflammation, neuropathy, vascular impairment, infection, and cellular dysfunction. Conventional treatments often fall short in addressing these multifaceted challenges, Therefore, formulating safe and effective treatment strategies holds significant clinical significance. In recent years, Microneedle Hydrogels have emerged as a novel drug delivery system due to their minimally invasive application, high drug loading capacity and controlled release characteristics, This review highlights the unique advantages of Microneedle Hydrogel systems, including their structural characteristics, drug delivery capabilities, and mechanisms in promoting ulcer healing. At the same time, the challenges currently faced in research and the future development directions were explored, aiming to provide references for further research and clinical application in this field.