Reactive Oxygen Species‐Scavenging Nanosystems in the Treatment of Diabetic Wounds

Abstract

AbstractDiabetic wounds are characterized by drug‐resistant bacterial infections, biofilm formation, impaired angiogenesis and perfusion, and oxidative damage to the microenvironment. Given their complex nature, diabetic wounds remain a major challenge in clinical practice. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), which have been shown to trigger hyperinflammation and excessive cellular apoptosis, play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of diabetic wounds. ROS‐scavenging nanosystems have recently emerged as smart and multifunctional nanomedicines with broad synergistic applicability. The documented anti‐inflammatory and pro‐angiogenic ability of ROS‐scavenging treatments predestines these nanosystems as promising options for the treatment of diabetic wounds. Yet, in this context, the therapeutic applicability and efficacy of ROS‐scavenging nanosystems remain to be elucidated. Herein, the role of ROS in diabetic wounds is deciphered, and the properties and strengths of nanosystems with ROS‐scavenging capacity for the treatment of diabetic wounds are summarized. In addition, the current challenges of such nanosystems and their potential future directions are discussed through a clinical‐translational lens.