Bioadhesive Polydopamine-Vitamin A Derivative Hydrogels Reprogram the Wound Microenvironment for Scarless Wound Healing and Hair Follicle Regeneration

    January 2026 in “ Materials Horizons ”
    Kang Wang, Hengjie Zhang, Mengxin Wang, Zhengyong Li, Wu Wu, Peng-cheng Liu, Ruiqi Liu, Zhipeng Gu, Yiwen Li, Zhenyu J. Zhang
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    TLDR The hydrogel helps wounds heal without scars and promotes new hair growth.
    The study introduces a bioadhesive hydrogel system combining polydopamine nanoparticles with Vitamin A derivatives to enhance scarless wound healing and hair follicle regeneration. This system stabilizes Vitamin A derivatives, allowing pH-responsive release and providing antioxidant protection. In vivo tests on rats and rabbits demonstrated accelerated wound closure, improved collagen deposition, reduced fibrosis, and new hair follicle formation. The hydrogel modulates the immune microenvironment by downregulating pro-fibrotic and inflammatory pathways and promoting regenerative signaling. This innovative approach offers a promising strategy for advanced wound care with dual anti-scarring and regenerative benefits.
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