pH-Triggered antibiotic release from nanofiber–hydrogel hybrid dressings for infected wound healing

electrospinning and loaded with amoxicillin, exhibited pH-triggered release profiles responsive to acidic wound environments. A Schiff base reaction between aldehyde-modified guar gum and gelatin conferred enhanced mechanical strength without compromising biocompatibility. This hybrid structure enabled a dual-stage release mechanism, characterized by an initial release from the nanofibers and subsequent sustained diffusion from the hydrogel matrix. This sequential release profile resulted in a more than 10-fold extension of the release duration compared to the control. In a murine wound infection model, the composite dressing significantly accelerated healing, reducing the healing time by at least 50%. Additionally, it suppressed inflammatory cytokines and promoted collagen deposition. This study presents a practical strategy for developing multifunctional, bioresponsive wound dressings with customizable release behavior tailored to the dynamic wound microenvironment.