A cellulose/Konjac glucomannan–based macroporous antibacterial wound dressing with synergistic and complementary effects for accelerated wound healing

Maintaining an optimal moisture level and preventing infection of the tissues surrounding wounds remain critical challenges in wound healing. In this study, antibacterial and moisturizing dressings were fabricated based on cellulose/konjac glucomannan (KGM)/Ag nanoparticle composites via a simple two-step method. First, cellulose/KGM gels were prepared by combining cellulose and KGM with the aid of an ionic liquid, 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride. Subsequently, Ag nanoparticles were directly formed via in situ reduction of silver nitrate in the cellulose/KGM gel. The experimental results revealed that the swelling behavior, moisture retention, mechanical properties, and antibacterial activity of the composite gel could be readily manipulated by modulating the cellulose-to-KGM ratio and silver nitrate concentration. The CK7-Ag3 aerogel with large pore structure, desired water swelling, and mechanical and antibacterial properties was found to be a competent wound dressing for further characterization. Importantly, in vitro and in vivo studies indicated that CK7-Ag3 aerogel has excellent antibacterial activity and biocompatibility and that it can enable complete wound recovery within only 14 days by inducing cell proliferation. Given the low cost and high healing efficiency, this wound dressing can potentially be used in clinical applications.