Graphene oxide quantum dots-enhanced hydrogel: A multifunctional approach for eradicating bacteria and promoting vessel formation in infected wound management

Abstract

To prevent or control wound infection is particularly important for the healing of common infectious wounds. In order to avoid bacterial resistance caused by traditional antibiotic therapy, this study developed a gelatin photocrosslinked hydrogel wrapped with graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs, GPH) that has photothermal antibacterial properties and can promote vascular regeneration. Firstly, The GOQDs and GPH were prepared and characterized. In vitro antibacterial, biocompatibility and the ability promote angiogenesis of GPH were detected. A mouse infectious wound model was used to investigate the feasibility of GPH to be a multifunctional dressing for skin repair. The GOQDs were prepared and GPH were developed. The incorporation of GOQDs into gelatin significantly improves the mechanical properties of the hydrogel. The outstanding GPH hydrogel showed remarkable photothermal ability, which is crucial for its antibacterial effect and helps to promote cell proliferation and angiogenesis, which is a key process of wound healing. In vivo testing further confirmed the effectiveness of GPH hydrogel in promoting skin repairing, especially when used in combination with near-infrared radiation (NIR). The unique nano photothermal properties of hydrogel, together with its enhanced mechanical strength and biocompatibility, make it a promising candidate for future applications in infection and chronic wound medicine.