Compound Microalgae-Type Biofunctional Hydrogel for Wound Repair during Full-Thickness Skin Injuries

Abstract

A dual biofunctional hydrogel (HQCS-SP) wound dressing, offering antibacterial properties and a biological response, was innovatively designed and developed to repair full-layer skin defects. The HQCS-SP hydrogel creates an artificial matrix that facilitates cell recruitment, extracellular matrix deposition, exhibiting exceptional tissue affinity, robust self-healing, effective hemostatic capabilities and accelerates wound healing. It is synthesized by crosslinking modified chitosan (HQCS) with spirulina protein (SP) and Fe3+. The HQCS provides antibacterial, antioxidant, good tissue affinity and excellent hemostasis performance. The incorporation of SP not only reinforces the antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and pro-angiogenesis effects but also participates in the regulation of signal pathways and promotes wound healing. Therefore, this study offers a new visual angle for the design of advanced functional trauma dressings with great application potential in the bio-medical field.