Rhizome-Inspired Liquid-Management Membrane to Promote Wound Healing

Abstract

Exudate reversal to wounds significantly limits rapid and effective wound healing when a hydrophilic dressing is used. Inspired by Murray’s law of the structural characteristics of rhizomatous plants, we constructed an electrospinning-nanofibrous membrane to achieve unidirectional exudate transport. Polycaprolactone (PCL) was used to construct a graded pore size variation compliant with Murray’s law. Upon liquid wetting, the macro-pore layer (wound side) forms unidirectional capillary forces that propel fluid toward the micro-pore layer (outer side), exhibiting liquid transport efficiency compliant with Murray’s law. This outward capillary force, on the one hand, drives the continuous drainage of wound exudate, reducing the accumulation of inflammatory substances, and promoting wound healing; on the other hand, it prevents the backflow of inflammatory fluid within the outer hydrophilic material. Moreover, hydrophobic materials do not adhere to tissues, which helps reduce secondary damage during dressing replacement. In addition, curcumin (CUR) loading on the wound side enhances the membrane’s antioxidant and proangiogenic properties, supporting vascularization, collagen deposition, reducing inflammation, and accelerating healing. In conclusion, this biomimetic nanofiber dressing represents straightforward wound treatment approach with substantial clinical potential.

Keywords

Electrospinning membrane / Wound dressing / Murray’s law / Liquid management / Wound healing

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Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China(52473004)

Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality(20DZ2254900)

Development of standardized clinical trials and establishment of follow-up evaluation system for in situ regeneration of intelligent biomaterials(2019YFA0110603)

key research project “Research on key technologies and equipment for early treatment of naval battle injuries in 2019"(2019YSL010)

Shanghai Municipal Commission of Science and Technology(24YF2701400)

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

Donghua University, Shanghai, China

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