Nb2C MXene functionalized janus amphiphilic membrane manipulates antioxidant, antibacterial and proangiogenic properties to accelerate diabetic wound healing

Abstract

Diabetic wound treatment remains a worldwide clinical challenge due to key issues, including persistent oxidative stress, bacterial infections and impaired angiogenesis, which impede diabetic wound healing. In this study, a multifunctional Janus amphiphilic membrane (Nb@CCJM) was successfully prepared through a double vitrification process for diabetic wound healing. The layers of the Janus membrane were tightly connected due to the nano-interlocking interface formed between the inner Nb₂C MXene-functionalized collagen vitrified membrane and the outer CMC vitrified membrane. Nb@CCJM exhibited excellent biocompatibility, outstanding mechanical properties, and appropriate degradation behavior, effectively scavenging significant amounts of ROS both in vivo and in vitro, thereby reducing oxidative stress in cells and tissues. Additionally, Nb@CCJM exhibited remarkable bactericidal activity to prevent wound infections. Owing to the hydrophilicity of the CMC layer, Nb@CCJM displays asymmetric adhesion; its outer layer effectively prevents tissue adhesion while simultaneously resisting bacterial adherence and avoiding infection. Importantly, Nb@CCJM significantly enhanced the migration and tube formation of vascular endothelial cells in vitro and efficiently promoted angiogenesis and wound healing in diabetic mouse models. Furthermore, mechanistic studies indicate that one of the mechanisms through which Nb@CCJM promotes angiogenesis involves the upregulation of SDF-1α and CXCR4 gene expression, thereby activating the SDF-1α/CXCR4 signaling axis along with its downstream MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways to facilitate vascular endothelial cell migration and accelerate angiogenesis. In summary, Nb@CCJM was prepared using a straightforward and safe method, effectively scavenged ROS, eliminated bacteria, resisted cell adhesion, and promoted angiogenesis, providing a cost-effective solution for accelerating diabetic wound healing.