Novel Biocompatible Nanocomposites Based on Gelatin and Green-Synthesized Graphene Quantum Dots for Enhanced Wound Healing

Material biology has emerged as a transformative field aimed at addressing biomedical challenges through the development of advanced therapeutic materials that surpass conventional treatment modalities. Biocompatible and highly water-retentive hydrogels have demonstrated significant potential in accelerating diabetic wound healing, mitigating the limitations of traditional wound dressings. This study presents the design and fabrication of a novel gelatin-based hydrogel integrated with graphene quantum dots (GQDs) synthesized via an environmentally sustainable green chemistry approach using natural precursors. The incorporation of GQDs as nanofillers into the gelatin matrix enhanced the physicochemical and biological performance of the resultant nanocomposites hydrogel. FTIR spectra confirmed successful integration of GQDs within the gelatin matrix through characteristic chemical interactions, while XRD analysis demonstrated increased crystallinity reflecting homogeneous GQDs dispersion. Spectroscopic measurements confirmed the exceptional optical properties of GQDs. FESEM images revealed a highly porous morphology with well-distributed GQDs, and TEM analysis verified nanoscale size (~5 nm) and uniform dispersion of GQDs within the hydrogel network. These structural improvements enhanced water uptake and mechanical stability of the hydrogels. Cytotoxicity assessed by MTT assay showed over 90% viability of human skin fibroblast cells, indicating excellent biocompatibility, alongside potent antibacterial activity against E. coli assessed by micro-broth dilution. Furthermore, hemocompatibility and thrombogenicity assessments demonstrated the material's safety profile suitable for direct blood contact during wound healing. The findings reveal that the green-synthesized gelatin/GQD nanocomposite hydrogel offers a promising biomaterial scaffold for effective wound management, highlighting its potential to advance therapeutic strategies in diabetic wound healing.