Advancements in Alginate-Based Biomaterials for Enhanced Skin Regeneration: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Alginate, a naturally occurring polysaccharide composed of β-d-mannuronate (M) and α-l-guluronate (G), has attracted widespread attention for skin regeneration applications due to its exceptional biocompatibility, biodegradability, and tunable physicochemical properties. Beyond its traditional role in maintaining a moist wound environment and providing a protective barrier, recent advancements have focused on the strategic functionalization of alginate with nanoparticles, bioactive agents, and cross-linking modifications to overcome its intrinsic limitations and expand its therapeutic potential. This review offers a comprehensive yet critical analysis of the latest innovations, emphasizing the synergistic incorporation of nanoparticles—such as silver, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and silica—to enhance antimicrobial activity, mechanical stability, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, we explore chemical and enzymatic modifications that improve alginate′s structural integrity and drug delivery performance. Challenges such as nanoparticle-induced cytotoxicity, degradation variability, and translational barriers to clinical use are critically examined. Finally, actionable future directions are proposed to bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical applications. This review distinguishes itself by providing an integrated, application-oriented perspective on the evolving landscape of alginate-based biomaterials for enhanced skin regeneration.