Work

Vat Photopolymerization-Fabricated Theranostic Hydrogels for Smart Wound Management

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Despite the demand for personalized wound care, integrating diagnostics and therapeutics into a unified platform remains a significant challenge. To address this, we developed a 3D-printed theranostic hydrogel using vat photopolymerization, enabling precise, multifunctional wound management. The hydrogel matrix, composed of poly(acrylamide-co-hydroxyethyl acrylate) and carboxymethyl cellulose, was chemically crosslinked with poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate. Bromocresol purple was integrated into the photosensitive resin to enhance printing fidelity and serve as a diagnostic indicator, providing a distinct colorimetric shift upon skin infection. For controlled drug delivery, graphene oxide (GO) and levofloxacin were incorporated into the system. The 3D-printed hydrogel demonstrated superior swelling capacity (>600%), ideal for absorbing wound exudate. A semi-quantitative linear colorimetric response was observed across varying pH levels, allowing for clear differentiation between healthy healing skin (pH 4.0–6.0) and infected conditions (pH 7.0 and above). Furthermore, the hydrogel exhibited infection-stimulated therapy, with a cumulative levofloxacin release of 92.63% at pH 8, significantly higher than in acidic conditions. Moreover, the incorporation of GO further optimized the delivery profile by tuning absorption and release rates. Synergizing real-time monitoring and on-demand therapeutic action, this 3D-printed system offers a scalable, robust solution for future-ready, personalized wound management.

Source: Gels

DOI: 10.3390/gels12050393