Biomimetic Antibacterial Gelatin Hydrogels with Multifunctional Properties for Biomedical Applications

Abstract

A facile novel approach of introducing dopamine and [2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl] dimethyl-(3-sulfopropyl) ammonium hydroxide via dopamine-triggered in situ synthesis into gelatin hydrogels in the presence of ZnSO4 is presented in this study. Remarkably, the resulting hydrogels showed 99.99 and 100% antibacterial efficiency against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, respectively, making them the highest performing surfaces in their class. Furthermore, the hydrogels showed adhesive properties, self-healing ability, antifreeze properties, electrical conductivity, fatigue resistance, and mechanical stability from −100 to 80 °C. The added multifunctional performance overcomes several disadvantages of gelatin-based hydrogels such as poor mechanical properties and limited thermostability. Overall, the newly developed hydrogels show significant potential for numerous biomedical applications, such as wearable monitoring sensors and antibacterial coatings.

Natural blackcurrant extract contained gelatin hydrogel with photothermal and antioxidant properties for infected burn wound healing

“…Gelatin, a natural protein, is often used to prepare hydrogel due to its biocompatibility, gel-forming ability, and drug-delivery capability [ 25 , 26 ]. Additionally, gelatin-based hydrogels offer an appropriate structure and moisture for wound dressing, prolongs the drug effect, enhances efficacy, and facilitates wound healing [ [27] , [28] , [29] ]. Pullulan, a natural polysaccharide produced by fungal fermentation, is non-toxic, non-irritating, and biocompatible, aligning with the concept of green and sustainable development [ 30 , 31 ].…”