Development of a Photothermally Polymerized Gelatin/Poly(ethyleneglycol)Dimethacrylate/Methylcellulose Hydrogel for Sustained Carbenicillin Delivery in Chronic Wound Healing

ABSTRACT Chronic wounds pose significant healthcare challenges due to their susceptibility to infection and impaired healing. The complexity of managing such wounds is exacerbated by colonization with diverse microorganisms, including Staphylococcus aureus , Pseudomonas aeruginosa , and Escherichia coli . Hydrogels have emerged as promising materials for wound care, offering biocompatibility, moisture retention, and potential for controlled drug delivery. In this study, we developed a photothermally polymerized hydrogel patch composed of gelatin, poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate, and methylcellulose, designed for localized, sustained delivery of carbenicillin. The hydrogel demonstrated excellent physicochemical and mechanical properties, along with controlled drug release kinetics and enhanced antibacterial activity against pathogens commonly associated with chronic wounds. Cytocompatibility studies confirmed its safety for potential clinical applications. Overall, the multifunctional hydrogel described here is intended for infection control and wound healing, offering a novel approach to managing chronic wounds.