Multifunctional Nanofiber-Based Smart Dressing System with pH-Response, Angiogenesis, and Anti-inflammation Properties for Enhancing Diabetic Wound Healing

Diabetic chronic wounds are plagued by persistent bacterial infections and dysregulated pH, leading to high amputation risks. Promoting multifunctional and smart dressing systems has been identified as a potential solution to enhance the healing process. In this work, a multifunctional fiber film (PCSNP) was built, integrating a pH-responsive drug release for on-demand antibacterial action. PCSNP comprised three layers of electrospun fibers: a fast-acting germicidal inner layer, a pH-responsive coaxial inter layer, and a self-powered outer layer. Electrical performance tests revealed that PCSNP generated 1.6 V of electrical stimulation, which was helpful to enhance cell growth. PCSNP could change color to indicate wound status and facilitate rapid drug release when the diabetic wound came into contact. The antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and MRSA was 98.71%, 99.01%, 98.25%, and 87.3%, respectively. Meanwhile, PCSNP possessed excellent capabilities in proliferation, migration, anti-inflammation, and angiogenesis promotion. The stability studies showed that PCSNP maintained ideal safety and functional characteristics after long-term storage. The design of the smart response fiber is expected to effectively address multiple potential problems in diabetic wounds, thereby improving the overall efficacy of healing.