Gelatin hydrogels loaded with FAKI and ZIF-8@PDA nanoparticles for suppression of hypertrophic scar formation.

Abstract

Hydrogels is an attractive strategy for wound healing. However, it must balance antimicrobial efficacy with biocompatibility, addressing challenges such as insufficient antibacterial properties, limited effectiveness in complex wound healing, and poor scar formation control seen in conventional hydrogel dressings. Herein, we demonstrate an innovative ZIF-8@PDA nanoparticle-embedded gelatin hydrogel with integrated photothermal antibacterial activity (antibacterial rate close to 100% at 3 min) and good biocompatibility. Encapsulation of focal adhesion kinase inhibitors within the hydrogel has an initial release rate of approximately 28% within 24 h in vitro. The combined hydrogels accelerate the closure of bacterially infected inflammatory wounds and reduce the formation of hypertrophic scars in mice. Mechanistically, the hydrogel effectively blocks the mechanotransduction pathway through FAK/ERK/YAP cascade, mitigating fibroblast overproliferation and reducing fibrotic scar formation. These findings highlight a transformative approach in hydrogel design, showcasing the potential to significantly promote wound healing and reduce hypertrophic scar formation, thus paving the way for innovative advancements in next-generation wound management solutions.

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