Figure 6.
Intricate overview of the synthesis of RHCMA and HAMA, the formation of RHAg composite hydrogels, and their implications in chronic wound healing, emphasizing their significance in medical and health sciences, particularly in wound healing and tissue engineering. (a) The synthesis of RHCMA involves the combination of recombinant human collagen (RHC) with methacrylate, yielding RHCMA, a crucial compound for hydrogel formation. (b) Similarly, the synthesis of HAMA entails the fusion of hyaluronic acid (HA) with methacrylate anhydride (MA), resulting in HAMA, another vital component of the hydrogel. (c) The formation of RHAg composite hydrogels initiated with a hydrogel precursor comprising AgNCs, which is subsequently transformed into a hydrogel through 3D bioprinting and UV light exposure, rendering it suitable for wound healing applications. (d) Demonstrating practical application, the figure showcases a STZ-treated mouse undergoing wound-making, dressing with antibacterial hydrogel, repair, and eventual healing stages, highlighting the RHAg composite hydrogels’ potential in promoting wound healing. This figure is adapted with permission from the American Chemical Society.67