A Multifunctional CeO₂-Modified Dual-Network Freeze-Dried Sponge for Infected Wound Healing.

Abstract

Bacterial-infected wounds face delayed healing due to excessive inflammation and oxidative stress, impairing tissue regeneration, which is a significant global health challenge. Traditional wound dressings, while partially promoting healing, often lack the integrated functions of antibacterial properties, antioxidant capabilities, and inflammation regulation, making them insufficient for complex wound environments. This study developed a freeze-dried dual-network sponge by cross-linking platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and cerium oxide (CeO₂) into a silver ion carboxymethyl agarose (CMA-Ag) matrix. The sponge not only exhibits excellent water absorption and compressive strength but also demonstrates comprehensive regulatory capabilities throughout the entire wound healing process. It has remarkable antibacterial properties, effectively mitigates oxidative stress injury, and continuously regulates the inflammatory microenvironment of infected wounds. Moreover, the material promotes the N2 polarization of neutrophils via the Toll-like receptor/nuclear factor-κB (TLR/NF-κB) signaling pathway, subsequently inducing the polarization of macrophages towards the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. This significantly accelerates wound healing and tissue regeneration, particularly in epithelialization and angiogenesis. The freeze-dried sponge also offers unique advantages, including long-term storage, personalized customization, and on-the-shelf availability. In summary, this multifunctional freeze-dried sponge provides an efficient, convenient, and personalized solution for the comprehensive management of infected wounds, with significant potential for clinical application.