Nanoparticle-infused wound dressings: A novel alternative to injectable therapies for enhanced healing and drug delivery

Abstract

Chronic and acute wounds pose significant challenges in healthcare, often requiring prolonged treatment and frequent interventions. Traditional injectable drug therapies, while effective, have limitations such as systemic side effects, low patient compliance, and inefficient drug delivery to the wound site. Nanoparticle-infused wound dressings offer a promising alternative by providing localized, sustained drug release while enhancing the wound healing process. These advanced dressings integrate nanoparticles (NPs) such as metallic, polymeric, lipid-based, and hydrogel-based systems to improve antimicrobial activity, promote angiogenesis, and facilitate tissue regeneration. Nanoparticles enable controlled drug release, protect bioactive agents from degradation, and enhance penetration into deeper wound layers, making them highly effective for chronic wounds like diabetic ulcers, burns, and surgical incisions. Moreover, functionalized NPs can incorporate antimicrobial agents, growth factors, and anti-inflammatory compounds, significantly reducing infection risks and promoting faster healing. Emerging studies highlight the potential of silver, gold, chitosan, and lipid-based NPs in improving wound care outcomes compared to conventional approaches. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of various nanoparticle-based wound dressings, their mechanisms of action, and their advantages over injectable therapies. It also discusses the challenges in clinical translation, including biocompatibility, regulatory hurdles, and large-scale production. With continuous advancements in nanomedicine, nanoparticle-infused wound dressings hold immense potential to revolutionize wound management, offering a patient-friendly and efficient alternative to traditional treatments. Future research should focus on optimizing formulations, ensuring safety, and conducting large-scale clinical trials to facilitate their transition into mainstream medical practice.