Hybrid MXene/Hydrogel Integration with Modulated Bioactivities for Synergistic Diabetic Wound Therapy.

Abstract

Effective management of diabetic wounds requires the simultaneous modulation of bacterial infection, oxidative stress, and angiogenesis. Here, we present a dynamic, self-healing hydrogel platform that integrates Ti₃C₂ MXene nanosheets and epidermal growth factor (EGF) within a glutathione-modified chitosan/alginate network. This injectable system uses dynamic Schiff-base cross-linking to provide superior tissue adhesion and conformability. Under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation, the single-layer MXene nanosheets enable robust photothermal antibacterial activity and trigger on-demand EGF release, which stimulates neovascularization. Simultaneously, the glutathione moieties actively scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS). In vivo assessments in a diabetic wound model revealed accelerated wound closure (96%), reduced inflammation, and a restored tissue architecture. Our study highlights a triple-synergistic strategy combining photothermal therapy, antioxidant protection, and angiogenic promotion, demonstrating the potential of rationally engineered MXene-based hydrogels for treating inflammation-associated pathologies.