Cellulose-based nanomaterials: innovations in wound healing and regenerative medicine

Cellulose-based nanomaterials have emerged as versatile and sustainable biomaterials with remarkable physicochemical and biological properties for wound healing and regenerative medicine. This review provides a comprehensive overview of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), and bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), emphasizing their distinct structural origins, preparation methods, and biomedical relevance. CNCs and CNFs derived from plant biomass offer tunable mechanical strength and surface functionality, while BNC, biosynthesized by microbial systems, exhibits superior purity, water retention, and biocompatibility. The review highlights how these materials modulate cellular responses-such as fibroblast adhesion, collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and epithelial regeneration-via biochemical signaling and physical cues. Their use as scaffolds, hydrogels, and composite matrices demonstrates promising outcomes in accelerating wound closure and promoting tissue regeneration. Furthermore, the integration of bioactive agents, growth factors, and antimicrobial nanocomponents has expanded their therapeutic potential. By uniting material science with cellular biology, this review underscores cellulose-based nanomaterials as next-generation platforms for advanced wound care and regenerative tissue engineering.