Light-activated hydrogels with natural acids that quickly and lasting kill bacteria to speed healing of infected wounds

The HA-GA/CA hydrogel shows rapid wound-healing effects in MRSA-infected mice under light irradiation.

• Hyaluronic acid-gallic acid conjugation combined with caffeic acid creates a hydrogel with self-healing and biodegradable properties.
• Caffeic acid generates reactive oxygen species when exposed to 400 nm light, damaging bacterial cell membranes.
• The hydrogel exhibits continuous antibacterial activity against MRSA, S. aureus, and E. coli, even after light exposure ends.
• Antioxidant properties of the hydrogel may promote wound healing alongside its antibacterial effects.
• Testing showed that the hydrogel effectively clears biofilms and inhibits bacterial growth.

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