MXenes-based flexible electronics for wound monitoring and treatment

Abstract

Wound healing is a dynamic and overlapping bio-process with varied cellular and molecular characteristics involved. Traditional wound dressings have made significant achievements in accelerating wound healing; however, they lack the ability to monitor the dynamic changes of wounds, which limits the effectiveness of wound management. Currently, the development of flexible electronics-based intelligent dressings that can monitor wound characteristics in a real-time manner can make a positive impact on clinical practice. MXenes, also known as a type of 2D inorganic compound, are generally considered ideal precursors for fabricating flexible electronics. MXenes-based flexible electronics can not only monitor the biomarkers of wounds (e.g., temperature, pH, lactic acid) but also promote wound healing by combining with other bio-activities. This review begins with a brief introduction to the challenges associated with the early diagnosis of wounds. It then provides a comprehensive summary and discussion of the fabrication and applications of MXenes-based flexible electronics for wound monitoring and treatment. Finally, it explores the current challenges and future directions in this cutting-edge field.