Multifunctional hydrogel dressing promotes wound healing by reprogramming the infection-related wound microenvironment

The development of biocompatible materials, which both facilitate wound healing and possess antimicrobial properties, continues to present a formidable challenge. However, recent research has increasingly acknowledged the pivotal role that macrophages play in the repair of wounds associated with infection. In this study, a novel sequential immunomodulation strategy is proposed, which involves the preparation of hydrogels encapsulating vancomycin-loaded lithium (Li) mesoporous bioactive glass (Li-MBG) within methacrylate silk fibroin (SilMA) hydrogel. The fabricated SLM@V hydrogel exhibited enhanced capabilities for vancomycin and Li ion release, adjustable mechanical properties, and a porous network structure. Cytocompatibility assessments revealed that SLM@V hydrogels exhibit favorable compatibility in vitro. Importantly, SLM@V hydrogels demonstrate significant bactericidal and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro. In a murine model of skin defects, SLM@V hydrogels facilitated the complete healing of infected wounds. Furthermore, histological and immunohistochemical analyses substantiated the effectiveness of SLM@V hydrogels in enhancing granulation tissue formation, promoting collagen deposition, and mitigating inflammation and angiogenesis. Consequently, the composite hydrogel synthesized in this research has the potential to expedite the healing process of infection-related wounds in a secure and efficient manner. This innovative composite hydrogel material offers a novel strategy to tackle the complexities associated with infection-induced wound healing.