pH-Responsive Multilayer Hydrogel Patches for Improved Burn Wound Healing

Burn injuries are among the most severe and painful skin conditions, significantly affecting patients' quality of life and physiological functions [1]. Effective management of burns necessitates prompt treatment and innovative materials that facilitate efficient wound healing. Hydrogels, known for their high hydrophilicity, excellent biocompatibility, and ability to create an optimal environment for skin tissue regeneration, have emerged as promising therapeutic options [2-3]. This study introduces a novel protocol for fabricating pH-responsive multilayer hydrogel patches composed of biocompatible alginate (ALG) and bioactive agents like manuka honey (MH) with antibacterial properties. The hydrogel patches were crosslinked through ionic gelation with a calcium chloride solution. Their hydrophilicity was assessed by evaluating the swelling ratio, water content, and ability to absorb wound exudate to enhance healing and prevent infections. FTIR analysis provided insights into the chemical composition of the layers, while DSC analysis assessed thermal stability within the physiological range. Water vapor transmission rates (WVTR) were measured to determine the water vapor permeability of the patches. The pHresponsive degradation was also studied to confirm the patches' responsiveness to different pH levels. The prepared multilayer hydrogels showed high water content (>85%), high porosity, and good water vapor permeability, indicating their potential effectiveness for burn treatment. This research presents a promising advancement in burn care, offering an innovative approach to enhancing burn management and healing.