Controlled release of silver ions from AgNPs using a hydrogel based on konjac glucomannan and chitosan for infected wounds.

Konjac glucomannan is a biocompatible polysaccharide with high medicinal potential. In this study, we prepared a hydrogel using an optimized crosslinking konjac glucomannan and chitosan. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were incorporated into the hydrogel to enhance its antimicrobial property. This nanocomposite hydrogel could absorb wound exudates due to its swelling ability, and showed self-healing property that enabled structure stability. Moreover, as a carrier, the hydrogel could modulate the release of silver ions burst, thereby reducing AgNPs cytotoxicity. Rats models with infected skin defects were used to assess wound healing. The results indicated that AgNPs hydrogels dressing could promote wound healing and reduce inflammatory response, exhibiting great clinical application potentials.