Biomedical potential of alginate wound dressings - From preclinical studies to clinical applications: A review

The challenge of impaired wound healing, particularly in diabetes, remains a significant concern in modern medicine. For this reason, new biomaterials are gaining attention due to unique properties. In this context, wound dressings composed of alginate, a polysaccharide extracted from brown algae, present unique advantages in wound healing due to their inherent biocompatibility, natural degradability, and absorbent properties. These features make alginate especially suitable for managing exudative wounds. Additionally, its hydrogel-forming ability supports a moist wound environment, which is conducive to tissue repair, re-epithelialization, and collagen synthesis. Experimental models involving acute and chronic wounds have highlighted alginate's therapeutic potential. Incorporating zinc oxide nanoparticles, platelet-rich plasma, and other bioactive substances into alginate-based materials has enhanced wound closure, stimulated angiogenesis, and mitigated inflammatory responses. In diabetic wound models, alginate composites enriched with antioxidants, growth factors, or stem cells have yielded marked improvements in tissue regeneration, emphasizing the adaptability of these materials. Clinically, alginate dressings have successfully managed diabetic foot ulcers, venous ulcers, donor-site injuries, and post-surgical wounds. Trials indicate that alginate dressings - particularly those fortified with zinc or vitamin derivatives - reduce healing duration, minimize inflammation and scar formation, and boost patient-reported outcomes. This review summarizes recent preclinical and clinical studies focusing on alginate-based dressings whose results are promising in the context of skin wound healing.