Enzyme-assisted formation of hybrid biopolymer hydrogels incorporating active phenolic nanospheres

Abstract

This work is about the synthesis of hybrid nanocomposite hydrogels comprising a thiolated chitosan platform that incorporates epigallocatechin gallate nanospheres as active polyphenolic agents for wound healing applications. The phenolic nanospheres were prepared using an industry-attractive, low-cost and fast sonochemical technology, whereas the gel formation was achieved via a green approach involving the enzymatic cross-linking with horseradish peroxidase, avoiding the use of harsh chemical cross-linkers. The superior functional properties of the phenolic nanospheres compared to their molecular counterparts are demonstrated by better attenuation of the chronicity factors found in non-healing wounds. Release of the intact and functional phenolic nanospheres coupled to good biocompatibility of the system during several days, reveals potential of this hybrid material as a dressing with prolonged activity for chronic wound management.