Antimicrobial/Biocompatible Hydrogels Dual-Reinforced by Cellulose as Ultrastretchable and Rapid Self-Healing Wound Dressing

Biomacromolecules. 2021 Apr 12;22(4):1654-1663. doi: 10.1021/acs.biomac.1c00086. Epub 2021 Mar 3.

Abstract

Hydrogels as a wound dressing, integrated with ultrastretchability, rapid self-healing, and excellent antimicrobial activity, are in high demand, particularly for joint skin wound healing. Herein, a multifunctional and ductile composite hydrogel was developed using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-borax gel as a matrix that was synergized or dual-reinforced with dopamine-grafted oxidized carboxymethyl cellulose (OCMC-DA) and cellulose nanofibers (CNF). Moreover, neomycin (NEO), an aminoglycoside antibiotic with multifunctional groups, was incorporated into the hydrogel network as both an antibacterial agent and a cross-linker. The dynamic reversible borate ester linkages and hydrogen bonds between OCMC-DA, PVA, and CNF, along with dynamic cross-linking imine linkages between NEO and OCMC-DA, endowed the hydrogel with excellent self-healing ability and stretchability (3300%). The as-reinforced networks enhanced the mechanical properties of hydrogels significantly. More remarkably, the composite hydrogel with improved biodegradability and biocompatibility is pH-responsive and effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, which is attributed to the controllable release of NEO for steady availability of the antibiotic on the wound location. Overall, the antimicrobial hydrogel with rapid self-healing and reliable mechanical properties holds significant promise as dressing material for wound healing.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Infective Agents* / pharmacology
  • Bandages
  • Cellulose
  • Hydrogels*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Anti-Infective Agents
  • Hydrogels
  • Cellulose