Solid-state atomic hydrogen as a broad-spectrum RONS scavenger for accelerated diabetic wound healing.

Abstract

Tungsten bronze phase HWO (HWO) was identified as a solid-state hydrogen carrier capable of releasing atomic hydrogen in a temperature-dependent manner, exhibiting broad-spectrum scavenging of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) distinct from molecular hydrogen. The material also displays pH-responsive biodegradability, enabling clearance from pathological sites after use. In a diabetic wound animal model, HWO administration promoted M2-type macrophage polarization and anti-inflammatory cytokine production, which in turn stimulated vascular formation and accelerated chronic wound closure. These findings broaden the known categories of hydrogen-based therapeutic materials and support investigation of diverse physical forms of hydrogen as RONS scavengers.

Mechanism

Atomic hydrogen released from HWO scavenges a broad spectrum of RONS, promotes M2-type macrophage polarization and anti-inflammatory cytokine production, and thereby stimulates angiogenesis to accelerate diabetic wound closure.