The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a prevalent and serious complication in diabetic patients, with about 20% of individuals affected during their lifetime. Unlike typical wounds, DFUs are difficult to heal due to complex pathophysiology, including chronic inflammation, elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), poor vascularization, and impaired epithelial regeneration. Conventional treatments, such as wound dressings, surgical debridement, and oxygen therapy, often have uncertain therapeutic outcomes due to limited efficacy, high cost, and potential side effects. To address these challenges, we developed a multifunctional therapeutic system that simultaneously offers: (i) sustained release of growth factors to promote epithelial repair, (ii) ROS scavenging to reduce oxidative stress, and (iii) immunomodulatory effects to control inflammation-induced tissue damage. The morphology, H₂O₂ scavenging, growth factor delivery, and cellular ROS scavenging of the complex system were investigated.