Mechanistic Study on Catechin-Derived Carbon Quantum Dots Promoting Wound Healing via Activating the MAPK/ERK-p38 Signaling Pathway

Nanomaterials have shown great potential in promoting wound healing; however, most studies focus only on describing their apparent functions, lacking an in-depth exploration of their underlying molecular mechanisms. This has significantly hindered their clinical translation and application. Herein, this study developed a nanomaterial, carbon quantum dots (Ct-CQDs), using natural catechin as a precursor, with a focus on systematically elucidating the precise molecular mechanism by which Ct-CQDs promote wound healing. Through comprehensive in vitro cell experiments, we confirmed that Ct-CQDs exhibit biosafety and the ability to promote cell migration. Meanwhile, this study is the first to reveal that Ct-CQDs promote wound healing by specifically activating phosphorylation of ERK and p38 in the MAPK signaling pathway. Innovatively, we used specific inhibitors (PD98059 and SB203580) to verify the mechanism both in vitro and in animal models, confirming that once the ERK/p38 pathway is blocked, the wound-healing-promoting effect of Ct-CQDs is significantly inhibited. In conclusion, this study provides a theoretical basis for the development of novel nano wound dressings based on natural products and offers solid theoretical and experimental support for their application as a nanodrug therapeutic strategy with clear mechanisms, high efficiency, and safety.