Fabrication of gelatin-based and Zn2+-incorporated composite hydrogel for accelerated infected wound healing

The study focused on developing gelatin-based hydrogels incorporated with Zn2+ to enhance their antibacterial properties for treating infected wounds. The hydrogels, created through polymerization and immersion in zinc nitrate, demonstrated strong antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus by increasing ROS levels and altering bacterial membrane permeability. They also showed good cytocompatibility, promoting cell adhesion, proliferation, and migration. Specifically, the [email protected] hydrogel achieved a balance between antibacterial effects, cell viability, and hemolytic properties, significantly improving the healing of S. aureus-infected wounds compared to commercial dressings by reducing inflammation, enhancing tissue formation, and stimulating angiogenesis. This indicated that Zn-incorporated hydrogels were promising for wound healing and skin regeneration.