Cutting edge strategies for diabetic wound care: Nanotechnology, bioengineering, and beyond

Abstract

Diabetic wounds affect millions of people globally, posing significant clinical and socioeconomic challenges due to their prolonged healing times and risk of complications. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the pathophysiology underlying delayed wound healing in patients with diabetes, focusing on key mechanisms such as hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, vascular insufficiency, and chronic inflammation. Impairments in angiogenesis, growth factor signaling, and tissue regeneration create a complex therapeutic landscape that demands multifaceted approaches. Accordingly, this review critically examines current clinical interventions such as topical growth factors, antioxidant therapies, and hyperbaric oxygen. Furthermore, it explores innovative solutions, such as advanced wound dressings, bioengineered materials, and stem cell therapy, which offer enhanced wound healing outcomes. We provided a comprehensive analysis of innovative platforms, such as nanoparticle-loaded hydrogels and 3D printing, shedding light on their transformative potential to revolutionize wound care through personalized multifunctional therapies. This review concludes by identifying critical gaps and proposing a roadmap for future research and clinical innovations to enhance diabetic wound management and improve patient outcomes.