3D-printed multifunctional hydrogel implant with human nail-derived keratin for anticancer treatment and promoting chronic wound healing through photothermal therapy
Chronic wounds and skin cancer remain challenging due to impaired regeneration and limited treatment efficacy. This study presents a multifunctional 3D-printed hydrogel implant integrating photothermal therapy with skin regeneration. The hydrogel scaffold was fabricated using keratin bioink from human nails for biocompatibility and mimicking extra cellular matrix. MXene was incorporated to confer efficient photothermal responsiveness under near-infrared irradiation for localized anticancer treatment. Additionally, DNA molecule was embedded in the matrix to promote cellular activity and accelerate skin regeneration. Physicochemical characterizations confirmed component integration and stability. In vitro and in vivo evaluations showed synergistic effects, including tumor ablation and enhanced diabetic wound healing. This multifunctional hydrogel implant offers a promising platform combining biomaterials and treatment strategies for cancer therapy and regenerative wound care.