Hydrolysed casein-a multifunctional approach to combat wound healing challenges

Wounds remain a significant global health concern, often described as a “silent epidemic,” with conventional topicaltherapies limited by antimicrobial resistance, high costs, and poor accessibility. Hydrolysed casein, obtained throughenzymatic breakdown of milk proteins, has emerged as a promising therapeutic alternative due to its antimicrobial,antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. This review consolidates evidence published between 2014 and 2024 fromPubMed, Embase, and Scopus, highlighting the role of hydrolysed casein in wound healing. Of 37 identified studies, 12met inclusion criteria. Findings demonstrate that hydrolysed casein exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity againstGram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. In addition, it modulates immune responses bysuppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhances granulation tissue formation, while its antioxidant activity protectstissues from oxidative stress. Various innovative delivery platforms—including hydrogels, nanofibers, micelles, andcomposite scaffolds—have been explored to improve stability, bioavailability, and clinical applicability. These systemsoffer controlled release, ease of administration, and cost-effectiveness. Collectively, hydrolysed casein represents amultifunctional, resistance-free, and affordable therapeutic candidate for wound healing, with significant translationalpotential for future clinical use.