Bio-inspired supramolecular hydrogel inhibits ferroptosis to accelerate diabetic wound healing

INTRODUCTION: Ferroptosis significantly compromises diabetic wound healing and represents a promising therapeutic target for clinical intervention. Baicalein (Bai), a natural flavonoid, has been considered to own ferroptosis-regulating properties, while the underlying mechanisms remain understood. OBJECTIVES: The study aims to investigate potential mechanisms by which Bai inhibits ferroptosis in endothelial cells and validate the therapeutic efficacy of Bai-loaded hydrogel on diabetic wounds. METHODS: supramolecular nanofibrous hydrogel was developed for active Bai delivery. Its wound-healing efficacy and underlying mechanisms were further evaluated in a diabetic rat model. RESULTS: nanofiber-incorporated hydrogel demonstrated favorable mechanical and biological properties, markedly reducing ferroptosis levels and accelerating diabetic wound healing. CONCLUSION: supramolecular nanofibrous hydrogel that synergistically enhances diabetic wound healing with proven therapeutic efficacy.