Copper-Based Nanoparticle Applications in Wound Healing
Summary
Copper-based nanoparticles have emerged as multifunctional agents in the management of acute and chronic wounds. By leveraging the intrinsic antibacterial properties of copper ions alongside their roles in inflammation, proliferation and remodelling phases, these nanomaterials address key barriers to efficient healing. Platforms include copper oxide and copper sulfide particles embedded in hydrogels, polymeric scaffolds and bioactive glasses, designed for controlled ion release and interaction with the wound microenvironment. Beyond simple antimicrobial action, many formulations exhibit enzyme-like catalytic activity, photothermal responsiveness or photosensitivity, promoting oxygen generation, reactive oxygen species modulation and enhanced angiogenesis. Preclinical models demonstrate accelerated closure rates, improved collagen deposition and reduced infection, particularly in diabetic and hard-to-heal wound scenarios. Challenges remain in optimising particle size, dose and biocompatibility to avoid cytotoxicity and ensure scalable production. Continued interdisciplinary efforts are advancing these nanotechnologies towards clinical translation and global wound-care applications.
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Copper-Based Nanoparticle Applications in Wound Healing publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in copper-based nanoparticle applications in wound healing across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Nanozyme: A nanoparticle that mimics natural enzyme activity, catalysing biochemical reactions in situ.
Photothermal conversion: The process by which nanoparticles absorb light and convert it into localized heat.
Hydrogel: A water-swollen, crosslinked polymer network used for controlled delivery and tissue support.
Angiogenesis: The formation of new blood vessels, critical for supplying oxygen and nutrients to healing tissue.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS): Chemically reactive molecules derived from oxygen, which can modulate cell signalling and microbial killing.
Biocompatibility: The ability of a material to perform without eliciting undesirable local or systemic responses in the host.
References
- Copper incorporated biomaterial-based technologies for multifunctional wound repair. Theranostics (2024).
- Functional molecule-mediated assembled copper nanozymes for diabetic wound healing. Journal of Nanobiotechnology (2023).
- Copper Sulfide Nanoparticles-Incorporated Hyaluronic Acid Injectable Hydrogel With Enhanced Angiogenesis to Promote Wound Healing. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology (2020).
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