Mechanism of Co(II)-Based Complex Hydrogels Loaded with Arginine Against Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Factors in Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is one of the main complications of patients with diabetes and seriously endangers the health of patients. In this study, a new Co(II)-based coordination polymer with the chemical formula of {[(CH3)2NH2]0.5[Co(BTA) (TAZ)0.5 · 0.5DMA]}n (1) was synthesized and successfully loaded with arginine using the mixed ligand synthesis approach. With natural polysaccharide as raw material, HA/CMCS hydrogels loaded with arginine drug and exhibiting a metal–organic framework were prepared by chemical synthesis to control the release of arginine. The microstructure of the hydrogels was studied, and their efficacy in the treatment of DFU was evaluated. The hydrogels showed a highly porous morphology with good penetration between the pores and significantly inhibited the HG-induced decrease in cell activity and up-regulation of ROS levels to inhibit oxidative stress response. In addition, the hydrogels down-regulated the expression of TXNIP and NLRP3 to suppress the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. Thus, these hydrogels have potential to be developed as a drug for DFU treatment.