Scalable and Versatile Metal Ion Solidificated Alginate Hydrogel for Skin Wound Infection Therapy

Abstract

AbstractBacterial infections in wounds continue to be a major challenge in clinical settings worldwide and represent a significant threat to human health. This work proposes novel expandable and versatile methods for solidifying sodium alginate (SA) with metal ions (such as Fe3+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, and Zn2+) to create Metal‐Alginate (M‐Alg) hydrogel with adjustable morphology, composition, and microstructure. It conforms to the wound site, protects against second infection, reduces inflammation, and promotes the healing of infected wounds. Among these hydrogels, Cu‐Alginate (Cu‐Alg) shows excellent sterilization effect and good efficacy against both gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria, including multidrug‐resistant (MDR) strains such as Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Carbapenem‐resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) due to its dual antibacterial mechanisms: contact‐killing and reactive oxygen species (ROS) burst. Importantly, it exhibits low cytotoxicity and biodegradability. This simple and cost‐effective gel‐based system has the potential to introduce an innovative approach to the management of wound infection and offers promising new perspectives for the advancement of wound care practice.