Reactive oxygen species scavenging injectable hydrogel based on synergistic interactions for accelerated diabetic wound healing

The accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a key factor in the inflammatory microenvironment that delays diabetic wound healing. However, current clinical treatments fail to achieve effective ROS scavenging. Here, we develop an injectable hydrogel that exhibits ROS-scavenging activity. Through rational modification of the molecular chains, the hydrogel's aldehyde groups, phenolic hydroxyl groups, and copper ions synergistically scavenge excess ROS in the microenvironment. The hydrogel CSDX3 modulates macrophages toward reparative M2 polarization, reducing inflammatory cytokines in the wound microenvironment. In a diabetic model with bacterial infection, this hydrogel significantly accelerates diabetic wound healing, achieving healing rates comparable to commercial dressings. These findings provide a novel and highly effective approach for accelerating chronic wound healing.