Preparation of Multi-Functional Quaternary Ammonium Chitosan/Surfactin Hydrogel and Its Application in Wound Management.

Hydrogel with a three-dimensional network structure can cover the wound to stop the bleeding and support the host tissue infiltration and integration. In this study, an antibacterial hydrogel with hemostasis and the ability to promote wound healing was proposed. This hydrogel comprised surfactin, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and methacrylic anhydride (MA) grafted quaternary ammonium chitosan (CS-MA). The hydrogel formation was triggered by the ultraviolet-initiated polymerization of CS-MA, while the surfactin was complexed with the hydrogel through hydrogen bonding interaction. The results showed that this hydrogel is an adhesive hydrogel with shape adaptability, which can cover the wound surface and promote contact between the hydrogel and the wound surface. More importantly, this hydrogel can simulate the microenvironment of the primary extracellular matrix and increase collagen deposition, and inflammatory factor transformation. The designing of such a multi-functional hydrogel is expected to provide a novel approach to promoting the healing of wounds. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.