Transition metal chalcogenide nanowires-integrated extracellular matrix analogues for modulating redox microenvironment in tissue regeneration

초록

Wound healing under oxidative stress remains a major clinical challenge. We present Mo₆S₃I₆ nanowires integrated within gelatin methacrylate hydrogels as extracellular matrix mimetics for enhanced tissue regeneration. These nanowires (5–20 nm diameter, micrometer length) exhibit defect-mediated electron transfer that autonomously neutralizes reactive oxygen species without external triggers. The composite hydrogels demonstrate 4-fold enhanced tensile strength and maintain structural integrity under extreme oxidative conditions. In vitro studies reveal concentration-dependent cytoprotection of encapsulated keratinocytes and stem cells against oxidative stress. In vivo validation in murine wounds shows accelerated closure, enhanced re-epithelialization, and organized collagen deposition over 7 days. Molecular analyses confirm 71 % downregulation of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and normalization of inflammation-related gene expression to healthy tissue levels. This semi-interpenetrating network establishes a redox-optimized microenvironment that simultaneously suppresses inflammatory cascades while promoting regenerative processes, offering therapeutic potential for chronic wounds associated with diabetes and inflammatory conditions. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.

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