ENGINEERING POLYOXAZOLINE-BASED NANO HYDROGELS FOR MULTIFUNCTIONAL WOUND CARE: MOLECULAR ARCHITECTURE, DRUG DELIVERY, HEALING MECHANISMS AND TRANSLATIONAL CHALLENGES

Abstract

Effective wound management remains a significant clinical challenge, particularly in chronic and non-healing wounds where infection, prolonged inflammation and impaired tissue regeneration hinder recovery. Advanced biomaterials capable of providing a moist environment, controlled drug delivery and biological support are increasingly explored to address these limitations. Among emerging candidates, polyoxazoline-based nano hydrogels have gained attention due to their unique physicochemical versatility, excellent biocompatibility and structural tunability. These polymers exhibit adjustable hydrophilicity, thermal responsiveness and low protein adsorption, making them suitable for biomedical applications. When engineered at the nanoscale, polyoxazoline hydrogels demonstrate enhanced surface area, improved cellular interaction and efficient encapsulation of therapeutic agents. This review examines the synthesis strategies, structural characteristics and functional modifications of polyoxazoline nano hydrogels relevant to wound healing. Emphasis is placed on their role in promoting haemostasis, modulating inflammation, accelerating re-epithelialization and supporting extracellular matrix remodelling. The potential of these nano-structured systems for stimuli-responsive drug release and infection control is also discussed. Furthermore, current preclinical findings, translational considerations and existing challenges related to scalability, regulatory approval and long-term safety are critically analysed. By integrating material science principles with wound biology, this review highlights how polyoxazoline-based nano hydrogels represent promising platform for next-generation wound dressings and regenerative therapies.