Zirconium‐Based Metal‐Organic Framework Capable of Binding Proinflammatory Mediators in Hydrogel Form Promotes Wound Healing Process through a Multiscale Adsorption Mechanism

Abstract

The regulation of proinflammatory mediators has been explored to promote natural healing without abnormal inflammation or autoimmune response induced by their overproduction. However, most efforts to control these mediators have relied on pharmacological substances that are directly engaged in biological cycles. It is believed that functional porous materials removing target mediators provide a new way to promote the healing process using their adsorption mechanisms. In this study, the Zr‐based metal‐organic frameworks (MOF)‐808 (Zr6O4(OH)4(BTC)2(HCOO)6) crystals are found to be effective at removing proinflammatory mediators, such as nitric oxide (NO), cytokines, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vitro and in vivo, because of their porous structure and surface affinity. The MOF‐808 crystals are applied to an in vivo skin wound model as a hydrogel dispersion. Hydrogel containing 0.2 wt% MOF‐808 crystals shows significant improvement in terms of wound healing efficacy and quality over the corresponding control. It is also proven that the mode of action is to remove the proinflammatory mediators in vivo. Moreover, the application of MOF‐808‐containing hydrogels promotes cell activation, proliferation and inhibits chronic inflammation, leading to increased wound healing quality. These findings suggest that Zr‐based MOFs may be a promising drug‐free solution for skin problems related to proinflammatory mediators.

Injectable hydrogels doped with PDA nanoparticles for photothermal bacterial inhibition and rapid wound healing in vitro

“…Various strategies-including electrostatically spun bers, metal-organic frameworks and hydrogels-have been developed to promote wound healing, among which hydrogels have attracted a lot of attention. [6][7][8] Hydrogel, a polymer with a threedimensional network structure, has emerged as a highly promising biomaterial for wound healing owing to its exceptional biocompatibility, degradability, and ability to absorb wound exudate. 9 Nevertheless, conventional hydrogels lack antimicrobial properties, rendering the wound site vulnerable to microbial attack.…”