Pectin based three dimensional printing in wound healing: Innovations, challenges, and future prospects: A review

Pectin is a complex polysaccharide and a structural fiber found in plant cell walls, particularly in the primary cell wall and middle lamella. In recent decades, pectin, a biopolymer derived from citrus fruits, apples, and sunflower heads, has drawn remarkable attention as a promising biomaterial due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Wound healing is a dynamic and complex process essential for restoring the integrity and function of tissues. The convergence of natural polymers with wound healing properties and cutting-edge printing technologies has resulted in the development of personalized wound dressings for wound management and regenerative medicine. The versatility of pectin as a biomaterial has led to its incorporation in various wound healing applications, including hydrogels, films, and scaffolds. 3D printing technology offers precise control over the architecture and composition of these pectin-based structures, allowing for the creation of tailored wound dressings that can address specific healing requirements. These advanced dressings can potentially enhance wound healing by providing a moist environment, promoting cell proliferation, and delivering therapeutic agents directly to the wound site. This comprehensive review delves into the nuances of three dimensional (3D) printing technology, along with the applications of pectin-based 3D printed dressings in wound healing and tissue regeneration.