Biopolymers and synthetic polymeric materials in wound healing: cellular mechanisms and therapeutic potential
Yuvarani Krishnan, Shobana Sampath
Abstract
Tissue repair is a dynamic and complex process that includes inflammation, cell proliferation, and remodelling of skin tissue. This review synthesizes unique insights from both biological and synthetic polymer research, highlighting their roles as advanced biomaterials for wound healing management. Natural polymers such as alginate, collagen, hyaluronan, and fibrin can mimic the extracellular matrix and stimulate cellular adhesion and regeneration. Synthetic polymers such as polycaprolactone (PCL), poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and polyethylene glycol (PEG) are recognized for their mechanical properties, controlled drug release into nano-platforms, and 3D scaffolds. The review discusses the new therapeutic benefits provided by polymer-based biomaterials, with potential applications in efficient delivery, formulation, and nano-based techniques. It is extensively reviewed in the context of polymeric scaffolds and nanoparticles for treating diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). In addition to summarizing phase-specific functions in tissue repair, this review critically assesses current limitations and challenges in clinical translation, as well as future directions for nanoengineered polymeric platforms. Comparative analysis explores the biological mechanism underlying wound healing and the role of polymer material in each phase of the repair process, with emerging strategies such as stimuli-responsive materials, bioengineered skin substitutes, and the application of polymeric nanoparticles. Through the interdisciplinary integration of materials science with cellular mechanistic insights, this work defines novel approaches and sets the stage for personalized, efficient wound care therapies using polymeric biomaterials.