Tailored bioengineering and nanomedicine strategies for sex-specific healing of chronic wounds.

Abstract

Chronic wounds, defined by their prolonged healing process, significantly impair patients' quality of life and impose a hefty financial burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Sex- and gender-specific mechanisms regulate inflammation and infection, angiogenesis, matrix synthesis and cell recruitment. All of these processes contribute to cutaneous wound healing but remain largely understudied. This review aims to spotlight the innovative realm of bioengineering and nanomedicine, which is at the helm of revolutionizing complex chronic wound care. It underscores the significance of integrating patient sex into the development and (pre)clinical testing of these avant-garde treatment modalities, in order to enhance healing prospects for all patients regardless of sex. Moreover, we explore the representation of male and female patients in clinical trials of bioengineered and nanomedicine products. Finally, we examine the primary reasons for the historical neglect in translating sex-specific wound healing research into clinical practice and propose strategic solutions. By tackling these issues, the article advocates advanced treatment frameworks that could significantly improve healing outcomes for individuals of all sexes, thereby optimizing both efficacy and inclusivity in chronic wound management.