A Carboxymethyl Chitosan-Based Double-Crosslinking Hydrogel with Enhanced Antibacterial Properties for Accelerated Wound Healing

Here, a novel double-crosslinked hydrogel dressing with enhanced antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities is reported. Carboxymethyl chitosan is crosslinked with silane and Ca2+ to form a double-crosslinked hydrogel, and silver nanoparticles are loaded to introduce antibacterial properties to the hydrogel. The covalent crosslinking preserves the integrity of the hydrogel matrix, while the ionic crosslinking dissipates the energy under deformation. It combines high stretchability, toughness, tissue adhesion, and antimicrobial function. This hydrogel exhibits excellent cytocompatibility and hemocompatibility. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo investigations demonstrate its efficacy in accelerating bacterial-infected wound healing. Given its excellent cytocompatibility and mechanical properties, this hydrogel is anticipated to be widely used in bacteria-associated wound management.