Smart Injectable Hydrogels for Localized Detoxification of Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in Septic and Chronic Wounds: A Comprehensive Review

Septic and chronic wounds remain a major clinical challenge due to persistent inflammation, microbial colonization, and endotoxin-driven tissue damage. Among bacterial virulence factors, lipopolysaccharides (LPS) derived from Gram-negative pathogens play a central role in delaying wound healing by triggering excessive inflammatory signaling and oxidative stress. Recent advances in biomaterials have introduced smart injectable hydrogels as versatile platforms capable of localized LPS detoxification. These hydrogels, composed of natural, synthetic, or hybrid polymers, are engineered through physical or chemical crosslinking and exhibit responsiveness to wound-related stimuli such as pH, temperature, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and enzymatic activity. Their injectability, self-healing capability, and ability to conform to irregular wound geometries make them particularly suitable for septic wound management. Incorporation of functional additives_x۰۰۰۰_including cationic polymers, affinity ligands, nanozymes, and antimicrobial agents_x۰۰۰۰_enables targeted LPS binding, neutralization, ROS scavenging, and controlled release of therapeutics. Preclinical studies consistently demonstrate enhanced LPS removal efficiency, reduced inflammatory cytokine expression, improved fibroblast and keratinocyte viability, and accelerated wound closure. Despite these promising outcomes, challenges persist regarding large-scale manufacturing, biosafety, regulatory approval, and the integration of real-time sensing technologies. Overall, smart injectable hydrogels represent a transformative and multifunctional strategy for localized LPS detoxification, offering significant potential for next-generation wound care and sepsis management.

کلیدواژه ها:

Inflammation ، Detoxification ، Biopolymer ، Regeneration ، Healing