ECM-mimetic immunomodulatory hydrogel for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus–infected chronic skin wound healing

Abstract

The treatment of difficult-to-heal wounds remains a substantial clinical challenge due to deteriorative tissue microenvironment including the loss of extracellular matrix (ECM), excessive inflammation, impaired angiogenesis, and bacterial infection. Inspired by the chemical components, fibrous structure, and biological function of natural ECM, antibacterial and tissue environment–responsive glycopeptide hybrid hydrogel was developed for chronic wound healing. The hydrogel can facilitate the cell proliferation and macrophage polarization to M2 phenotype, and show potent antibacterial efficacy against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Significantly, the glycopeptide hydrogel accelerated the reconstruction of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)–infected full-thickness diabetic and scalding skin by orchestrating a pro-regenerative response indicated by abundant M2-type macrophages, attenuated inflammation, and promoted angiogenesis. Collectively, ECM-mimetic and immunomodulatory glycopeptide hydrogel is a promising multifunctional dressing to reshape the damaged tissue environment without additional drugs, exogenous cytokines, or cells, providing an effective strategy for the repair and regeneration of chronic cutaneous wounds.