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Pharmaceutics
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Prospects of Hydrogels in Wound Healing
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Prospects of Hydrogels in Wound Healing

A special issue of Pharmaceutics (ISSN 1999-4923). This special issue belongs to the section "Pharmaceutical Technology, Manufacturing and Devices".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2025 | Viewed by 7003

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Roberta Censi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Pharmacy, Drug Delivery Division, University of Camerino, CHIP Research, Camerino, Italy
Interests: pharmaceutical technology; formulation; biomaterials; hydrogels; nanoparticles; polymorphism
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Cristina Casadidio

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Pharmacy, Drug Delivery Division, University of Camerino, CHIP Research Center, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, MC, Italy
Interests: biomaterials; polymer synthesis; hydrogels; nanoparticles; gene and drug delivery; therapeutics stability
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Healing chronic wounds is a painful and difficult long-term process, with risks and great burden for patients. Fortunately, modern wound dressing solutions create easier healing options with many more advantages compared to traditional dressings (better absorption, antibacterial properties, insulation, etc.). In recent years, there has been significant progress in the development of hydrogels as advanced wound dressings. By incorporating bioactive compounds, improving mechanical properties, and creating stimuli-responsive systems, hydrogels have the potential to revolutionize wound care by promoting faster healing, reducing infections, and enhancing patient comfort. In conclusion, we dedicate this Special Issue to all innovative studies of hydrogels as wound dressings in the pharmaceutic field.

Dr. Roberta Censi
Dr. Cristina Casadidio
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • biomaterial
  • hydrogels
  • wound healing
  • wound dressing
  • dermal drug delivery

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

25 pages, 8073 KiB  
Article
Wound Healing Properties of Plant-Based Hydrogel and Oleogel Formulations in a Rat Scald Burn Model
by Oana Janina Roșca, Alexandru Nistor, Georgeta Hermina Coneac, Ioana Viorica Olariu, Ana-Maria Cotan, Roxana Racoviceanu, Elena Rodica Heredea, Adelin Ciudoiu, Gabriela Didea, Camelia Mihaela Lupou, Florin Borcan, Teodora Hoinoiu, Cristina Adriana Dehelean, Lavinia Lia Vlaia and Codruța Marinela Șoica
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(5), 597; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17050597 - 1 May 2025
Viewed by 719
Abstract
Background: Scald burns pose significant morbidity, and effective topical treatments remain a clinical priority. Burn injuries pose a significant clinical challenge due to the prolonged inflammation and high infection risk. Traditional treatments focus on moisture retention and infection prevention, but biocompatible formulations such [...] Read more.
Background: Scald burns pose significant morbidity, and effective topical treatments remain a clinical priority. Burn injuries pose a significant clinical challenge due to the prolonged inflammation and high infection risk. Traditional treatments focus on moisture retention and infection prevention, but biocompatible formulations such as hydrogels and oleogels offer advantages. Hydrogels hydrate, cool, and promote epidermal regeneration, while oleogels form a lipid barrier that enhances the absorption of lipophilic bioactive compounds. There is an increasing demand for novel topical alternatives that can effectively improve wound healing by modulating the inflammatory cascade, accelerating epithelial and dermal regeneration, and restoring barrier function. Objective: This study aimed to determine the most effective plant-based topical formulations for enhancing second-degree scald burn wound healing. Methods: Utilizing a standardized rat model, we compared 21 distinct topical formulations, consisting of oleogel and hydrogel bases enriched with extracts from Boswellia serrata (frankincense), Ocimum basilicum (basil), Sambucus nigra flower (elderflower), and Galium verum (lady’s bedstraw). Second-degree burns were uniformly induced in 24 Wistar rats using boiling water (100 °C for 8 s) using the RAPID-3D device, a validated 3D-printed tool that ensures reproducible burns through controlled exposure to boiling water. Post-burn, rats were divided into three equal subgroups, and topical formulations were applied daily. Wound healing efficacy was evaluated through wound surface area measurements, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin hydration, sebum production, pigmentation, inflammation (erythema), skin perfusion, and histological parameters at multiple timepoints (days 1, 4, 9, 14, and 21 post-burn induction). Results: Statistical analyses indicated significant advantages of oleogel-based formulations over hydrogel-based formulations. Specifically, formulations containing Boswellia serrata and Ocimum basilicum extracts significantly reduced wound size and inflammation, improved skin hydration, and decreased melanin production by days 9 and 21 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: These findings underscore the potential clinical value of oleogel-based topical preparations containing specific plant extracts for improving scald burn wound healing outcomes, warranting further clinical evaluation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prospects of Hydrogels in Wound Healing)
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23 pages, 1675 KiB  
Article
Hydrogel Containing Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles and Origanum vulgare Essential Oil for Burn Wounds: Antimicrobial Efficacy Using Ex Vivo and In Vivo Methods Against Multidrug-Resistant Microorganisms
by Angela Hitomi Kimura, Débora Dahmer, Luana Ayumi Isawa, Ana Beatriz Olivetti da Silva, Lucas Marcelino dos Santos Souza, Pedro Henrique Takata, Sara Scandorieiro, Anastácia Nikolaos Deonas, Jennifer Germiniani-Cardozo, Eliana Carolina Vespero, Marcia Regina Eches Perugini, Nilton Lincopan, Audrey Alesandra Stinghen Garcia Lonni, Gerson Nakazato and Renata Katsuko Takayama Kobayashi
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(4), 503; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17040503 - 10 Apr 2025
Viewed by 691
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Wounds from burns are susceptible to infections, allowing multidrug-resistant microorganisms to complicate treatments and patient recovery. This highlights the development of new strategies to control these microorganisms. This work evaluated the antibacterial activity of hydrogels containing biogenic silver nanoparticles (bio-AgNP) and Origanum [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Wounds from burns are susceptible to infections, allowing multidrug-resistant microorganisms to complicate treatments and patient recovery. This highlights the development of new strategies to control these microorganisms. This work evaluated the antibacterial activity of hydrogels containing biogenic silver nanoparticles (bio-AgNP) and Origanum vulgare essential oil (OEO) against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Methods: The formulations were subjected to organoleptic, pharmacotechnical, and stability characterization and antimicrobial activity assessment by time–kill tests and alternative methods, an ex vivo model using porcine skin, and an in vivo model using Galleria mellonella. Results: All hydrogels maintained their stability after the thermal stress. The hydrogel containing bio-AgNP + OEO 1% (HAgNP + OEO1) presented bactericidal effectiveness, within 2 h, against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative multidrug-resistant bacteria in the time–kill test. For alternative testing, HAgNP + OEO1 was compared with 1% silver sulfadiazine (SS) and the base formulation. In the ex vivo test, both HAgNP + OEO1 and SS treatments showed a similar reduction in superficial washing of the burn for S. aureus 999, while for P. aeruginosa, the reduction was more expressive for SS treatment. In the burn tissue, HAgNP + OEO1 treatment was more effective against S. aureus 999, while for P. aeruginosa 1461, both formulations were similarly effective. In the Galleria mellonella test, survival rates after 48 h were 84% for the control group (base) and 50% for both HAgNP + OEO1 and SS treatment groups. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that the hydrogel combining antimicrobials is effective against multidrug-resistant microorganisms, offering a promising alternative for the treatment of infected burns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prospects of Hydrogels in Wound Healing)
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15 pages, 4354 KiB  
Article
The Acid-Buffered Engineered Gel Promotes In Vitro Cutaneous Healing and Fights Resistant Bacteria in Wounds
by Fatima Abid, Emmeline Virgo, Tahlia Louise Kennewell, Riya Khetan, Hanif Haidari, Zlatko Kopecki, Yunmei Song and Sanjay Garg
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(11), 1484; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16111484 - 20 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1062
Abstract
Background: Treatment of cutaneous wound infections is becoming a major clinical challenge due to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance associated with existing wound treatments. Two prevalent pathogens in wound infections, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. [...] Read more.
Background: Treatment of cutaneous wound infections is becoming a major clinical challenge due to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance associated with existing wound treatments. Two prevalent pathogens in wound infections, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), continue to present a serious challenge, underscoring the critical need for new therapeutic alternatives. Methods: Novel alginate acid-buffered gels (ABF-1, ABF-2, and ABF-3) were developed using a combination of organic acids in various concentrations and buffered at a pH of 4.5. The acid-buffering capacity of the gels was evaluated against sodium hydroxide solution and simulated wound fluid (SWF) at different wound pHs, mimicking infected and non-infected wound environments. The in vitro antibacterial activity was assessed against resistant bacterial strains (Gram-positive and Gram-negative) using a microdilution method and wound biofilm assay. The rheological properties and cell viability of the gels were evaluated and the gel showing positive cell viability was further investigated for healing ability using an in vitro wound scratch assay. Results: The gels showed promising in vitro antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa. Gels with higher acid concentrations (ABF-1 and ABF-2) were highly effective in reducing the bacterial load in chronic biofilms of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, while the gel with a lower acid concentration (ABF-3) showed positive effects on the viability of skin cells (over 80% cells viable) and for promoting wound closure. All three gels demonstrated excellent acid-buffering capabilities. Conclusions: The acid-buffered gels demonstrate promising in vitro antibacterial effects, indicating their potential for enhancing wound healing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prospects of Hydrogels in Wound Healing)
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14 pages, 3108 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Platonia insignis Mart. (Bacuri Butter) and Biopolymers from the Puree of Allium cepa L. (Yellow Onion Bulb) for Wound Healing in Horses
by André M. Resende, Beatriz A. Miranda, Luiza B. Silva, Andressa B. Oliveira, Márcio B. Castro, Isabel L. Macêdo, Bruno S. L. Dallago, Hernane S. Barud, Marco A. Costa Borges, Clovis A. Ribeiro, Diogenes S. Dias and Rita C. Campebell
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(11), 1457; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16111457 - 15 Nov 2024
Viewed by 955
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Skin injuries are common in the equine clinical practice, requiring effective treatment to support natural healing. Bacuri butter is gaining attention for its potential in wound healing and its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Natural polymers such as onion (Allium cepa [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Skin injuries are common in the equine clinical practice, requiring effective treatment to support natural healing. Bacuri butter is gaining attention for its potential in wound healing and its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Natural polymers such as onion (Allium cepa) bioplastics have been investigated for their potential as occlusive dressings and for tissue regeneration. Methods: This study evaluated the healing process of experimentally induced skin wounds on horses treated with bacuri butter, washed onion film, and unwashed onion film. Clinical and histopathological analyses of the wounds were conducted in six clinically healthy horses over 28 days, with a control group receiving Ringer’s lactate solution. The onion films were produced and characterized for their chemical structure and properties, while the bacuri butter was sourced and prepared for application. Results: All treatments, including the control group, promoted wound healing without relevant differences in wound contraction rates, gross aspect, or histopathological parameters. Conclusions: Therefore, despite minor variations observed in the clinical evaluations between the treatment groups, the bacuri butter or onion biopolymer showed no significant healing effect on skin wounds in horses. Additionally, this study showed the potential of equine models in testing novel therapeutic approaches for wound healing, benefiting both veterinary and human medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prospects of Hydrogels in Wound Healing)
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22 pages, 4563 KiB  
Article
Physically Cross-Linked PVA Hydrogels as Potential Wound Dressings: How Freezing Conditions and Formulation Composition Define Cryogel Structure and Performance
by Anna Górska, Ewelina Baran, Justyna Knapik-Kowalczuk, Joanna Szafraniec-Szczęsny, Marian Paluch, Piotr Kulinowski and Aleksander Mendyk
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(11), 1388; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16111388 - 28 Oct 2024
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2224
Abstract
Objectives: Hydrogels produced using the freeze–thaw method have demonstrated significant potential for wound management applications. However, their production requires precise control over critical factors including freezing temperature and the choice of matrix-forming excipients, for which no consensus on the optimal conditions currently [...] Read more.
Objectives: Hydrogels produced using the freeze–thaw method have demonstrated significant potential for wound management applications. However, their production requires precise control over critical factors including freezing temperature and the choice of matrix-forming excipients, for which no consensus on the optimal conditions currently exists. This study aimed to address this gap by evaluating the effects of the above-mentioned variables on cryogel performance. Methods: Mechanical properties, absorption capacity, and microstructure were assessed alongside advanced analyses using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry (LF TD NMR). Results: The results demonstrated that fully hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with a molecular weight above 61,000 g/mol is essential for producing high-performance cryogels. Among the tested formulations, an 8% (w/w) PVA56–98 solution (Mw~195,000; DH = 98.0–98.8%) with 10% (w/w) propylene glycol (PG) provided the best balance of stretchability, durability, and low adhesion. Notably, while −25 °C is often used for cryogel preparation, freezing the gel precursor at −80 °C yielded superior results, producing materials with more open, interconnected structures and enhanced mechanical strength and elasticity—deviating from conventional practices. Conclusions: The designed cryogel prototypes exhibited functional properties comparable to or even surpassing commercial wound dressings, except for absorption capacity, which remained lower. Despite this, the cryogel prototypes demonstrated potential as wound dressings, particularly for use in dry or minimally exuding wounds. All in all, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of the physicochemical and functional properties of PVA cryogels, establishing a strong foundation for the development of advanced wound dressing systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prospects of Hydrogels in Wound Healing)
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