Tendon-inspired hybrid hydrogel based on polyvinyl alcohol and gallic acid-lysozyme for promoting wound closure and healing

Noninvasive wound closure remains a challenge in the field of wound healing. In this study, we report the development of a cross-linked P-GL hydrogel constructed from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and GL (a hydrogel consisting of gallic acid and lysozyme) that effectively promotes wound closure and healing. The P-GL hydrogel exhibited a unique lamellar and tendon-like fibrous network structure, providing good thermo-sensitivity and tissue adhesiveness up to 60 MPa, as well as retaining autonomous self-healing and acid resistance capacities. In addition, the P-GL hydrogel exhibited sustained release characteristics lasting >100 h, excellent biocompatibility both in vitro and in vivo, as well as good antibacterial activity and mechanical properties. The in vivo full-thickness skin wounds model revealed the positive wound closure and healing therapeutic effects of the P-GL hydrogels were confirmed, showing a promising potential as a noninvasive wound closure and healing bio-adhesive hydrogel.