Synthesis and Characterization of Nanoparticle Loaded Hydrogels for Chronic Wound Healing Materials

Regulation of wound-healing processes remains poorly developed and in much need of advancement. Multi-functional wound dressings with antimicrobial and responsive materials for healing detection are an emerging research frontier. This work explores the design of alginate-based hydrogels containing dual-functional amino acid additives (glycine, serine, and arginine) coupled with photochemically prepared metal-coated titanium dioxide nanoparticles (Ag-TiO₂) to understand the interactions of polymers/cross-linkers/additives. The nanocomposite was evaluated in its ability to uptake simulated wound exudate and tensile strength, qualities needed for sufficient wound care. Oxygen diffusion was also studied as it is important to understand when dealing with biological systems and materials with such tunable porosity. Additionally, adult human dermal fibroblasts and human leukemia cells were used to simulate wounds and explore the hydrogel materials’ influence on wound healing rates. This research advances hydrogel technology by providing valuable insights into tailored hydrogel dressings for wound healing applications.