Abstract

This study developed a novel conductive wound dressing composed of chitosan (CS), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and Pluronic F-127 (PF). A 22 + star factorial design was used to evaluate the effects of rGO and PF concentrations on conductivity, swelling capacity, mechanical properties, and cell migration. Analysis of variance identified the factors that significantly influenced these properties. The results showed that higher rGO concentrations improved conductivity, while PF had a significant impact on swelling capacity. Additionally, rGO influenced tensile strength, elastomeric modulus, and cell migration. The dressings were characterized using SEM, FTIR, XRD, TGA, wettability tests, antibacterial assessments, and cell viability analysis. Statistical optimization determined that the optimal formulation (CS-rGO-PF10) exhibited excellent conductivity (2.30 mS/cm), high fluid absorption (577%), strong mechanical properties (tensile strength of 22.14 MPa and elastic modulus of 170 MPa), and enhanced cell migration (100% closure rate after 48 h). Furthermore, it demonstrated strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In vivo tests on a porcine model confirmed that the dressing accelerated wound healing and improved tissue regeneration, as evidenced by enhanced re-epithelialization and vascularization. In conclusion, the CS-rGO-PF10 conductive hydrogel represents a promising solution for wound treatment.