DNA-Collagen Dressing Enables Scarless Burn Healing

Oral-maxillofacial burns result in significant scarring and mucosal dysfunction; however, no existing dressing effectively addresses both exudate overload and immune dysregulation in these anatomically complex regions. To address these challenges, we developed a collagen dressing functionalized with deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA-Cryo-ACol) that features aligned channels and a porous interconnected structure. Sprague-Dawley rats were conducted with deep partial-thickness burns. DNA-Cryo-ACol was fabricated using a directional ice templating technique, frozen cross-linking, and DNA functionalization. Comparative analyses encompassed exudate kinetics (capillary flow assays), immune profiling (RNA sequencing, CD4+ migration), and histological assessments (α-SMA, collagen I/III) The DNA-Cryo-ACol dressing exhibited superior exudate drainage capabilities, including: (i) expelling excess exudate at a rate 50 times greater than standard dressings; (ii) achieving a maximum exudate absorption rate that is double that of conventional dressings; and (iii) preventing exudate maceration due to enhanced capillary action. Furthermore, DNA-Cryo-ACol dressings demonstrated immunomodulatory effects that influence immune responses mediated by CD4+ T cells. Our findings indicated that the interaction between the DNA-Cryo-ACol dressing and CD4+ T cells stimulated the secretion of cytokines that inhibit scar formation while reducing α-smooth muscle actin expression. By effectively managing exudate drainage and immune responses, DNA-Cryo-ACol dressings significantly facilitated tissue regeneration in healed burn injuries. The results of this study directly address the unmet needs of oral-maxillofacial surgeons in aesthetic and functional rehabilitation.