Multifunctional Dynamic Cerium-Polypeptide Hydrogel with Antibacterial, Antioxidative, and Anti-Inflammatory Properties for Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Infected Wound Healing

The study presents a multifunctional cerium-polypeptide hydrogel (FEPC) designed to address multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections in wound healing, particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The hydrogel, constructed using Ce3+ and antibacterial polypeptide co-crosslinked γ-polyglutamic acid, exhibits strong antibacterial, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and angiogenesis-promoting properties. In vitro tests confirmed its robust antibacterial activity and ability to eliminate reactive oxygen species (ROS), while in vivo assessments demonstrated a 54% wound repair rate on day 3, surpassing other hydrogels with less than 40% repair rate. The FEPC hydrogel also promoted epithelialization and hair follicle regeneration within 14 days, significantly inhibiting infection and inflammation and accelerating angiogenesis. This research suggests that the cerium-polypeptide hydrogel is an effective treatment for MDR bacterial infected wounds, offering a comprehensive solution to combat infection and oxidative stress.