Double-Crosslinked SIS-Derived Collagen/Alginate Hydrogel With Antibacterial and Pro-Regenerative Activities for Soft Tissue Repair.

Abstract

A double-crosslinked antibacterial hydrogel (CS-Zn) was developed using small intestinal submucosa-derived collagen (SIS-Col), sodium alginate (SA), and zinc ions (Zn²⁺), and its potential for soft-tissue repair was systematically investigated. Through physical blending and ionic crosslinking, the hydrogel formed a dual-network structure with a tunable three-dimensional porous architecture, favorable mechanical properties, and good biocompatibility. In vitro studies demonstrated low cytotoxicity toward L929 cells and effective antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. In animal models, the hydrogel significantly promoted wound closure, angiogenesis, and organized collagen deposition in full-thickness skin wounds. In addition, preliminary evaluation of the myocardial ischemic injury model suggested that it had potential to improve tissue remodeling. In general, these findings indicate that CS Zn hydrogel is a promising multifunctional biomaterial and can be used for soft tissue repair.