Gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel loaded with ginsenoside-Rh2 and tannic acid assembled nanoparticles for radiation-induced skin injury cellular repair

Radiation-induced skin injury (RISI) is a common side effect of radiotherapy, but existing preventive approaches show less-than-ideal effectiveness. Thus, developing functional patches that combine strong reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging capacity with good biosafety is essential for repairing RISI. In this study, we propose a nanocomposite hydrogel patch made from naturally sourced materials. This patch has two key functions: chemically eliminating ROS and physically absorbing radiation, which together help reduce radiation-induced harm.Ginsenoside-Rh2@tannic acid (Rh2@TA) nanoparticles were prepared via the spontaneous coordination between tannic acid (TA) and iron ions (Fe³⁺), a process that allows for the encapsulation of Rh2. These nanoparticles were subsequently integrated into gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel patches. The GelMA matrix not only gives the hydrogel the ability to adhere to tissues but also imparts photothermal properties to it. At the same time, the patch demonstrates robust ROS scavenging ability and facilitates the polarization of macrophages toward the M2 phenotype. Moreover, the high water content of the GelMA hydrogel enables it to physically absorb low-energy X-rays, offering a radiation shielding effect.Leveraging these features, we confirmed that the GelMA hydrogel patch loaded with Rh2@TA nanoparticles has enhanced therapeutic effects in a cellular model of RISI. The results of this research provide important references for the use of ROS-scavenging hydrogels in RISI prevention.