ROS-Eliminating Carboxymethyl Chitosan Hydrogel to Enhance Burn Wound-Healing Efficacy

The study developed an ROS-sensitive hydrogel by incorporating the thione group into carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCTS) hydrogel, which was cross-linked and loaded with curcumin (Cur). This hydrogel demonstrated strong free radical scavenging ability, favorable nontoxicity, water absorption, mechanical properties, biodegradability, and drug release behavior. It significantly inhibited oxidative damage in human fibroblasts and protected their viability by reducing intracellular ROS. In a rat model with full-thickness skin burn defects, the hydrogel accelerated wound healing, promoted hair follicle and new blood vessel formation, and organized collagen fibers effectively. The Cur@CMCTS-Tk hydrogel showed potential for wound treatment and tissue regeneration by scavenging excess ROS.