Advances in Antifreeze Hydrogel-Based Wound Dressings

Wounds can occur in extreme environments, including subzero temperatures, where conventional wound dressings lose flexibility and functionality. Given these circumstances, specific wound care products that function effectively in cold environments must be developed. Recently, antifreeze hydrogels (AFHs) have garnered attention as viable options due to their ability to withstand ice crystallization, maintain biocompatibility, facilitate drug delivery, exhibit antibacterial activity, and retain flexibility. This review summarizes recent findings and provides a comprehensive overview of key advancements in AFH. Also, AFH-based wound dressings (AFHWDs) were discussed with a focus on the primary design objectives and functional aspects guiding their development. Various AFHWDs have been developed using strategies, such as the incorporation of antifreeze agents (e.g., glycerol, polyethylene glycol), the utilization of natural biomaterials (e.g., bacterial cellulose, gelatin), and the design of highly cross-linked polymer networks, each illustrating distinct antifreezing mechanisms like thermal hysteresis and ice recrystallization inhibition. This study also explores the main challenges and future scientific potential of AFHWDs. Finally, this review concludes by emphasizing the potential of alternative fabrication techniques such as 3D printing and electrospinning, and the need to explore more effective and naturally derived antifreeze agents for the development of next-generation AFHs.