Multiple-dynamic-bond crosslinked ion-elastomers achieve a combination of photothermal antibacterial and self-powered electrical stimulation for infected wound healing

Abstract

Numerous hydrogel dressings have been reported, which can effectively accelerate wound healing with the assistance of photothermal antibacterial therapy and an external electric field. However, these hydrogel dressings face challenges such as water loss during photothermal progress, low temperature intolerance, and difficulties in recycling. Here, we develop a poly lipoic acid (PLA) ion-elastomer that synergistically utilizes photothermal therapy and electrical stimulation from a self-powered PLA triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) to promote wound healing. The multiple dynamic bonds within the resulted ion-elastomer dressing make them highly stretchable (> 2000%), self-healing, easy to recover, and conductive (0.3 S m−1 at 25 °C). Through a combination of photothermal therapy and real-time electrical stimulation, the PLA ion-elastomer/TENG system can availably promote angiogenesis, collagen deposition, re-epithelialization, and tissue regeneration, thereby accelerating wound healing within a relatively short timeframe (11 days). Moreover, the ion-elastomer exhibits temperature sensitivity (TCR = 6.2% K−1) and human motion perception capabilities. We deem that this work will be conducive to the employment of versatile ion-elastomer dressings in wound healing and the progress in bio-patches with synergistic effects.