Photoresponsive Hydrogel Dressings for Controlled Drug Release in Wounds

Abstract

This study introduces the development of photoresponsive hydrogel dressings designed for controlled drug release in wound care. These hydrogels incorporate photothermal-responsive components enabling drug release to be precisely controlled with near-infrared (NIR) light exposure. Then localized heating triggers the release of therapeutic agents, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial drugs, thereby enhancing wound healing by reducing inflammation, encouraging tissue regeneration, and preventing infection. These multifunctional photoresponsive hydrogels represent a promising advancement in smart wound dressings, providing on-demand, spatially and temporally controlled drug delivery to improve healing outcomes in chronic and infected wounds.