Activating an Adaptive Immune Response from a Hydrogel Scaffold Imparts Regenerative Wound Healing

The study demonstrated that D-MAP hydrogel scaffolds activated an adaptive immune response, leading to regenerative wound healing and hair follicle neogenesis in mouse models. D-MAP-treated wounds showed significant recruitment of immune cells, enhanced immune activation, and increased hydrogel degradation, resulting in improved tissue regeneration, including increased tensile strength and hair growth. The presence of D-peptides elicited a T cell-dependent antibody response, crucial for skin regeneration and hair formation, unlike the milder response from L-MAP hydrogels. The findings highlighted the potential of using adaptive immune activation through biomaterials for effective tissue regeneration.