Engineered bioaerogel particles: a core–shell approach to adenosine delivery for wound healing

Chronic wounds require advanced biomaterials that combine structural integrity with controlled drug delivery. This study reports the development of novel core-shell aerogel particle systems based on silk fibroin (SF), silk sericin (SS), and alginate (ALG) designed for the controlled delivery of adenosine (ADO), a molecule known for anti-inflammatory and angiogenic properties, which can play a role in the process of wound healing. Leveraging the biocompatibility, porosity, and tunable properties of these natural polymers, a core-shell architecture was engineered by combining prilling and supercritical CO₂ drying technologies. The particles were composed of a SF/ALG core and an ALG or an ALG combined with a SS shell. All particle compositions exhibited high porosity (94-97%) and a pH-responsive swelling behavior. FTIR and PCA confirmed structural integrity and composition. ADO encapsulation achieved moderate loading and controlled-release profiles, influenced by shell composition. Biological evaluation confirmed biocompatibility in human dermal fibroblasts, keratinocytes, and endothelial cells. Although no significant differences were observed, the reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines and angiogenesis by ADO-loaded particles in CAM assays support their potential as multifunctional wound-healing platforms.