Nature-Derived Polysaccharide-Based Composite Hydrogels for Promoting Wound Healing

Abstract

Numerous innovative advancements in dressing technology for wound healing have emerged. Among the various types of wound dressings available, hydrogel dressings, structured with a three-dimensional network and composed of predominantly hydrophilic components, are widely used for wound care due to their remarkable capacity to absorb abundant wound exudate, maintain a moisture environment, provide soothing and cooling effects, and mimic the extracellular matrix. Composite hydrogel dressings, one of the evolved dressings, address the limitations of traditional hydrogel dressings by incorporating additional components, including particles, fibers, fabrics, or foams, within the hydrogels, effectively promoting wound treatment and healing. The added elements enhance the features or add specific functionalities of the dressings, such as sensitivity to external factors, adhesiveness, mechanical strength, control over the release of therapeutic agents, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, and tissue regeneration behavior. They can be categorized as natural or synthetic based on the origin of the main components of the hydrogel network. This review focuses on recent research on developing natural polysaccharide-based composite hydrogel wound dressings. It explores their preparation and composition, the reinforcement materials integrated into hydrogels, and therapeutic agents. Furthermore, it discusses their features and the specific types of wounds where applied.

Biomedical Trends in Stimuli-Responsive Hydrogels with Emphasis on Chitosan-Based Formulations

“…Despite their similar structure, hydrogels can be differentiated based on their origin into synthetic, semi-synthetic, and natural ones. While the choice of the source varies depending on specific applications and desired properties, natural polymer-based hydrogels are often favored over synthetic ones due to their biocompatibility and safety [37]. The human body contains hydrogel structures such as collagen, gelatin, cartilage, mucous, epidermis, meniscus, tendons, and vitreous humor [38].…”

Combined Amniotic Membrane and Self-Powered Electrical Stimulator Bioelectronic Dress Promotes Wound Healing

“…14 Functional wound dressings have been reported and their advantages include pain reduction, scar minimization, stimulation of collagen synthesis, promotion and facilitation of keratinocyte migration on the wound surface, and the provision of nutrients, growth factors, and other soluble mediators in the wound microenvironment. 15 The amniotic membrane (AM) is a thin and transparent membrane that lines the amniotic cavity and surrounds the fetus during pregnancy. It possesses unique properties that make it an appealing option for grafting in wound healing.…”

“…Their mechanical properties should be similar to those of human skin and should not disturb epithelialization, angiogenesis, and regeneration of connective tissue . Functional wound dressings have been reported and their advantages include pain reduction, scar minimization, stimulation of collagen synthesis, promotion and facilitation of keratinocyte migration on the wound surface, and the provision of nutrients, growth factors, and other soluble mediators in the wound microenvironment …”

Chitosan-based pH responsive hemostatic hydrogel loaded with cattail pollen

“…It is necessary to avoid issues such as allergies and irritation caused by material selection. Natural biomass extracts have become a good alternative to organic polymers due to their excellent biodegradability, biocompatibility, and low cost [7][8] . Shao et al [9] prepared a biodegradable wound dressing based on polysaccharides, which effectively avoided the irritation problem of traditional dressings and provided ideas for wound healing.…”