Nano-architectures in wound healing: Smart delivery systems, mechanistic insights, and translational roadmap

Skin wound healing is a complex, highly orchestrated biological process that often fails in pathological conditions such as diabetes, leading to chronic wounds with substantial global economic burdens. While conventional wound management strategies, including debridement, autografts, and topical drugs, remain the clinical standard, they exhibit significant limitations in treating chronic and infected wounds. This review critically synthesizes recent advancements in nano-architectures for wound healing, distinguishing itself by linking specific material properties to molecular-level healing mechanisms and clinical translational readiness. We systematically analyze biopolymer platforms reorganized by functional roles (structural support, moisture retention, hemostasis), and categorize nanomaterials into established systems (e.g., Ag, Au, ZnO) with strong in vivo evidence and emerging systems (e.g., CeO 2 , carbon-based structures) targeting specific pathophysiological barriers, such as the diabetic microenvironment. Advanced delivery platforms, including nanohydrogels, liposomes, niosomes, and electrospun nanofibers, are compared regarding encapsulation efficiency, stimuli-responsive release, and clinical practicality. Furthermore, we provide a critical evaluation of stimuli-responsive smart dressings, detailing their mechanisms in response to pH, ROS, temperature, and enzymatic cues. Unlike conventional narrative reviews, this work emphasizes long-term biosafety, nanotoxicity, biodistribution limitations, and manufacturing scalability. Concluding with a strategic translational roadmap, this review identifies the most promising nanoplatforms likely to achieve clinical validation within the next decade, offering a critical perspective for researchers and clinicians in advanced wound care.