Biocompatible, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory zinc ion cross-linked quaternized cellulose-sodium alginate composite sponges for accelerated wound healing

Bacterial infection has become one of the most challenges for wound healing, which causes serious inflammatory response and delays the healing process. Herein, a novel sponge with excellent biocompatible, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties based on quaternized cellulose (QC), sodium alginate (SA) and Zn2+ was reported. The existence of physical interactions, such as electrostatic interaction, chelation and hydrogen bonding endowed the sponges with enhanced mechanical property. The composite sponges exhibited outstanding biocompatibility and hemostatic efficiency due to the compatible nature of the component and physical crosslinking, as well as superior antibacterial property benefited from the synergistic effects of steady Zn2+ release and quaternary ammonium group. In vivo investigation validated that the enhanced antibacterial and antiinflammatory effect of the sponges, which significantly promoted wound closure and the reconstruction of skin tissue through epithelial regeneration, collagen deposition and mitigating inflammatory cell infiltration. Overall, the novel sponge demonstrated great potentials in bacteria-associated wound management.