Multifunctional Bacterial Cellulose Hydrogel Membranes with Antibacterial and Tissue-Regenerating Properties for Treatment of Infected Diabetic Wound

Diabetic chronic wounds, particularly foot ulcers (DFU), are challenging due to sustained inflammation, bacterial infection, and dysregulated angiogenesis, disrupting healing. Current treatments lack effective multifunctional solutions. We developed bacterial cellulose (BC) hydrogel membranes embedding copper ion-doped, fish collagen peptide-loaded zeolite imidazole frameworks (Col-Cu@ZIFs). The biocompatible, nontoxic BC membranes provide mechanical strength and a moist wound microenvironment. Copper ions and collagen peptides are released at the wound site. Copper ions convert endogenous H₂O₂into antibacterial reactive oxygen species, while FCP accelerate tissue regeneration. Col-Cu@ZIF-embedded BC membranes demonstrate potent antibacterial activity and significantly promote cell proliferation and migration. In vivo studies confirm enhanced wound closure, increased collagen deposition, and stimulated neovascularization, which can be further validated through histological staining, CD31 immunohistochemistry, and up-regulated expression of regenerative and anti-inflammatory genes. Consequently, the biocompatible, multifunctional Col-Cu@ZIF-embedded BC hydrogel membranes show great potential as advanced dressings for treating infected diabetic chronic wounds.