A research team from Fudan University has developed a hydrogel technology that can sense pH changes in wound environments and dynamically release functional agents, enabling a switch from antibacterial action to tissue repair. The material, constructed from an interpenetrating network of sodium alginate and carboxymethyl chitosan and loaded with tannic acid and zinc-doped bioactive glass, represents a significant advancement in intelligent wound management.
Led by Prof. Xiangchao Meng, the team designed the hydrogel to respond like medical professionals by adapting to each healing stage. "In an acidic wound environment, which is typical during infection, the gel contracts and releases tannic acid to kill bacteria and reduce oxidative stress," explains Meng. "As healing progresses and the pH becomes more alkaline, the gel expands and gradually releases zinc and calcium ions that promote angiogenesis and tissue regeneration." This dual-function system achieves what researchers describe as the first precise, stage-specific control of infected wound treatment.
In preclinical rat models with infected wounds, the hydrogel achieved over 90% wound closure in just 14 days, significantly outperforming standard treatments. Histological analysis revealed enhanced collagen deposition, reduced inflammation, and improved blood vessel formation. The research findings are documented in the journal Biomedical Technology with the DOI 10.1016/j.bmt.2025.100120.
The hydrogel's ability to remain inert in healthy tissue and activate only under pathological conditions addresses critical challenges in wound care. This feature reduces drug overuse and limits the need for frequent dressing changes, making it especially promising for treating complex wounds like diabetic foot ulcers or post-surgical infections. The technology could significantly improve patient outcomes while reducing healthcare costs associated with chronic wound management.
The team is now exploring clinical translation and broader applications. "This is a step toward intelligent wound management," adds Meng. "Materials that can listen to the body and respond accordingly could redefine how we treat injury and disease." The work was supported by multiple funding sources including the Youth Program of Minhang Hospital, Shanghai Minhang District Medical Specialty Construction Project, and Zhejiang Provincial Medicine and Health Technology Project. The research represents a convergence of materials science and medical treatment that could transform wound care protocols worldwide.
