Reactive Oxygen Species-Scavenging Nanosystems in the Treatment of Diabetic Wounds.

Diabetic wounds are characterized by drug-resistant bacterial infections, biofilm formation, impaired angiogenesis and perfusion, and oxidative damage to the microenvironment. Given their complex nature, diabetic wounds remain a major challenge in clinical practice. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), which have been shown to trigger hyperinflammation and excessive cellular apoptosis, play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of diabetic wounds. ROS-scavenging nanosystems have recently emerged as smart and multifunctional nanomedicines with broad synergistic applicability. The documented anti-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic ability of ROS-scavenging treatments predestine these nanosystems as promising options for the treatment of diabetic wounds. Yet, in this context, the therapeutic applicability and efficacy of ROS-scavenging nanosystems remain to be elucidated. Herein, we decipher the role of ROS in diabetic wounds and summarize the properties and strengths of nanosystems with ROS-scavenging capacity for the treatment of diabetic wounds. In addition, we discuss the current challenges of such nanosystems and their potential future directions through a clinical-translational lens. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.