Advanced Hydrogels with Dual-Responsive Release for Enhanced Skin Regeneration
Summary: This study introduces a novel hydrogel system engineered to respond both to pH changes and enzyme activity in the wound microenvironment to deliver therapeutic agents in a controlled manner. In animal models, the material supported sustained release, reduced inflammation, and accelerated skin regeneration compared to conventional dressings.
Key Highlights:
- Dual-responsiveness: The hydrogel matrix degrades in response to acidic pH and elevated protease levels commonly found in chronic wounds.
- Therapeutic delivery: Growth factors and antimicrobial agents were encapsulated and released on demand, improving local efficacy.
- Biocompatibility: The hydrogel demonstrated low cytotoxicity and good compatibility in vitro and in vivo.
- Healing outcomes: Treated wounds showed enhanced epithelial closure, better collagen organization, and reduced scarring.
Read the full article in Nature
Keywords:
dual-responsive hydrogel,
smart wound dressings,
controlled release,
skin regeneration