A research team from Fudan University has developed an innovative hydrogel that makes the treatment of infected wounds more precise. The material responds to pH changes in the wound environment and automatically adjusts its therapeutic effect – from fighting infections to promoting tissue repair. The results have been confirmed in preclinical studies and could change wound care in the long term.

The hydrogel consists of sodium alginate and carboxymethylchitosan, which form an interpenetrating network. Two bioactive components are encapsulated: tannic acid, a natural antibacterial agent, and zinc-doped bioactive glass, which releases healing ions. In an acidic wound environment, as is typical of infections, the gel contracts and releases tannic acid to eliminate bacteria and reduce oxidative stress. As healing progresses and pH rises, the hydrogel expands and releases zinc and calcium ions that aid in the formation of new blood vessels and tissue regeneration.

The development aims to create an intelligent material that actively accompanies the healing phases. In preclinical studies on rats with infected wounds, the hydrogel achieved a healing rate of over 90 percent within 14 days and significantly exceeded conventional treatment methods. Histological analyses showed increased collagen deposition, reduced inflammation and improved blood vessel formation. The selective activation of the gel is particularly noteworthy: it remains inactive in healthy tissue and reacts only under pathological conditions, which minimizes the use of medication and reduces dressing changes.

The hydrogel offers great potential for the treatment of complex wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers or postoperative infections. Its ability to adapt to the wound environment in real time could significantly improve the care of such injuries. The research team is now working on the clinical implementation and is examining further possible applications of the material.

Original Paper:

Microenvironment-feedback hydrogel for precise sequential repair of acute infectious wounds – ScienceDirect

Read Also:

Breakthrough: Hydrogel can heal like natural skin – MedLabPortal

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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