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Skin and Mucosal Delivery (Focus Group – SMD)

3D-Printed Carboxymethyl Cellulose Hydrogels for Melatonin Delivery in Chronic Wound Management

Mariana Zarur – PhD student, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela; Alvaro Goyanes – Associate Professor, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela; Carmen Alvarez-Lorenzo – Professor, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela
Introduction: Chronic wounds are increasing worldwide due to aging and comorbidities such as diabetes and vascular disease. Hydrogels based on natural polymers are attractive candidates to fabricate 3D printed patient-specific wound dressings [1]. Melatonin is a potent antioxidant and pro-regenerative molecule, but suitable delivery platforms are still needed. The aim was to develop sustainable, photocurable carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)–based inks for Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D printing of hydrogels capable of efficiently loading and releasing melatonin while maintaining appropriate mechanical properties and biocompatibility for chronic wound management.

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand how M-CMC hydrogels can be 3D printed for advanced wound dressing applications.
  • Explain how these hydrogels load and release melatonin in a controlled, pH-responsive manner.
  • Evaluate the biocompatibility and regenerative potential of melatonin-loaded hydrogels for wound healing.