Quercetin-encapsulated GelMa hydrogel microneedle reduces oxidative stress and facilitates wound healing

Abstract

Background

Delayed wound healing brings additional physical, mental, and financial burdens. Microneedles (MNs) are a novel dressing form and can incorporate drug delivery systems. Quercetin is known for its remarkable antioxidant capacity and may have a distinctive effect on wound healing.

Methods

We designed and constructed gelatin methacryloyl (GelMa) MNs carrying Quercetin (Q-MNs). In vitro, the physical properties, cell safety, cell migration, angiogenesis, collagen formation, and oxidative stress levels, were performed to characterize Q-MNs. In vivo, the full-thickness skin wound models were established to evaluate the re-epithelialization and oxidative stress impact of the control, MN, and Q-MN groups.

Results

The Q-MNs were mechanically strong enough to penetrate the skin for sustained drug delivery and possessed good biocompatibility. Moreover, the Q-MNs evidently facilitated wound healing both in vitro and in vivo, and promoted collagen formation and neo-angiogenesis, and the reduction of oxidative stress levels.

Conclusions

The Q-MNs could motivate wound healing with enhanced collagen formation and vascularization and decreased oxidative stress levels, thus providing a feasible strategy for wound healing.