Photonic Double Network Hydrogel Dressings For Refractory Infectious Wound Healing

This study aims to develop a novel photonic hydrogel for managing pathogenic bacteria-induced infections that lead to skin and oral mucosal abscesses. In oral medicine, such infections are often encountered following dental surgeries or periodontal diseases, and current treatments may delay tissue recovery due to excessive hyperthermia. We engineered a photonic hydrogel by integrating urchin-like Bi₂S₃ nano-heterojunctions with a double-network hydrogel matrix. Under near-infrared (NIR) illumination, the system triggers a synergistic effect of mild hyperthermia (below 50 °C) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, ensuring rapid germicidal action while minimizing heat-induced tissue damage. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the hydrogel achieves rapid bactericidal efficacy within 15 minutes and maintains excellent cytocompatibility even after NIR exposure. In vivo studies further confirmed its ability to accelerate full-thickness wound healing by debriding abscesses, eliminating pathogens, enhancing collagen deposition, promoting angiogenesis, and modulating inflammatory responses—findings that are highly relevant to treating oral infections and surgical wounds. The photonic hydrogel presents a promising strategy for the management of infectious wounds in both dermatological and oral contexts. By effectively combining photodisinfection with a tissue-friendly thermal profile, this approach offers a viable alternative to traditional antibacterial photothermal therapies, potentially improving outcomes in oral medicine without compromising tissue recovery.