Magnesium-Loaded Collagen/Hyaluronic Acid-Catechol Hydrogel Cross-Linked by Visible Light for Infected Wound Healing

Abstract

Skin, as the outermost barrier of the body, is highly vulnerable to wounds and injuries. Without timely and proper treatment, such wounds are prone to bacterial infection, which significantly impedes the healing process. As bacterial infection delays the wound healing process, effective control is critical for facilitating prompt tissue regeneration. However, conventional wound dressings generally lack intrinsic antibacterial activity, and commonly used antimicrobial agents─such as inorganic compounds or antibiotics─may cause systemic toxicity and contribute to antibiotic resistance. In this study, we designed a visible light-cross-linked collagen-based hydrogel incorporated with magnesium ions (Mg2+) to impart antibacterial functionality. The Mg2+-loaded hydrogel exhibited excellent biocompatibility, strong tissue adhesion, and significant antibacterial activity, achieving approximately 70% inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus as determined by the bacterial viability assay. Furthermore, in a full-thickness skin defect mouse model, the Mg2+-loaded composite hydrogel effectively suppressed bacterial growth and accelerated wound healing. This Mg2+-loaded collagen–hyaluronic acid hydrogel represents a promising therapeutic platform for infected wound treatment by integrating antibacterial efficacy, tissue adhesion, and enhanced regenerative potential.