Dual-functional cationic hydrogel engineered for simultaneous prevention of postoperative tumor recurrence and wound infection.

), while the hydrogel exhibited potent antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). In vivo evaluation using a post-tumor-resection mouse model confirmed that Gel@CAR-M@Mn@ELE significantly suppressed tumor recurrence and prolonged survival. The combination of bioactive components within the hydrogel modulated the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, thereby enhancing its immunotherapeutic efficacy. Additionally, in a bacterial wound infection model, the hydrogel effectively inhibited bacterial growth and accelerated wound healing. The Gel@CAR-M@Mn@ELE offers a novel and promising strategy, supported by experimental evidence, for concurrently addressing the critical post-surgical challenges of tumor recurrence and wound infection.