A critical review of MXene-derived bioactive materials for accelerated wound healing: Mechanisms, therapeutic strategies, and clinical prospects

MXene-derived bioactive materials are now recognized as a breakthrough category of nanomaterials for wound healing, thanks to their unique physicochemical and biological properties. Their remarkable photothermal conversion effectiveness, adjustable surface chemistry, and enhanced electrical conductivity provide a combination of antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and growth-promoting activities crucial for tissue repair. When incorporated into hydrogels, microneedles, nanofibrous membranes, and hemostatic sponges, MXenes promote rapid hemostasis, collagen formation, angiogenesis, and epithelial regeneration, while efficiently reducing bacterial infections and oxidative stress. Recent improvements underscore its efficacy in addressing acute, chronic, diabetic, and infected wounds through multimodal treatment mechanisms, including photothermal and electrostimulation therapies. Notwithstanding these encouraging results, obstacles such as oxidation instability, synthesis variability, and an inadequate understanding of their long-term biological suitability and biodegradability hinder clinical translation. It is essential to address these challenges through standardized production techniques, thorough biosafety evaluations, and the creation of oxidation-resistant, biodegradable MXene composites. Future initiatives involve developing intelligent MXene-based dressings that provide concurrent wound monitoring, precise drug delivery, and autonomous regulation of stimulation. These developments will facilitate precise wound care by integrating treatment effectiveness with diagnostic capabilities.