In-situ forming hydrogel incorporated with reactive oxygen species responsive and antibacterial properties for diabetic infected chronic wound healing

Abstract

Chronic diabetic wounds are often characterized by oxidative damage due to bacterial infection or pathological interference, representing a major clinical challenge. An in-situ gelled and shape-adaptable hydrogel with antibacterial and reaction oxygen species (ROS) scavenging properties was developed in this study. It was designed and synthesized via progressively adding dl-Dithiothreitol, Poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate and phenylboronic acid modified ε‑Poly-Lysine to obtain a stock solution before use. Through local light-induced in-situ gelling, this hydrogel can provide a physical barrier that fills wound defects and protects the wounds from bacteria. Moreover, the EPL-PBA modified DPEs exhibited excellent water absorption and outstanding consumption of H2O2, which could respond to an overdose of the oxidative micro-environment to promote wound healing. Moreover, the hydrogel displayed great biocompatibility and antibacterial activity, enabling the wound dressing to effectively inhibit bacterial growth and accelerate infected wound healing. Furthermore, an infected diabetic chronic full-thickness skin defect healing test revealed that the wound dressing promoted wound contraction and healing via inflammatory adjustment and collagen deposition. All of these in vitro and in vivo results revealed the capability of DPE2 to the acceleration of infected diabetic wound healing, presenting a viable material for chronic wound healing.