Fully Integrated Multifunctional Flexible Ultrasonic–Electric-Coupled Patches for Advancing Wound Care Paradigms

Zhongming Chen, Jinpeng Du, Yixuan Wang, Zhao Li, Wei Song, Ruilai Wei, Di Chen, Qilin Hua*, Xiaobing Fu*, Sha Huang*, Guozhen Shen*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Wound repair in adults lacks natural regenerative capacity seen during fetal period, frequently resulting in the formation of tissue fibrosis and functional impairments. By transforming the repair process into regenerative healing, it is possible to restore the original tissue state and significantly enhance human health. Advanced treatment methods, e.g., a wearable patch with ultrasound and electrical stimulation, offer promising solutions for wound regeneration by overcoming limitations of traditional approaches such as skin tissue engineering and physiotherapy machines. Here, a flexible ultrasonic–electric-coupled patch is presented which delivers noninvasive full-space stimulation to wound tissue, offering functionalities including anti-inflammation, protection, repairing, and continuous monitoring. Specifically, the patch applies an electric field to the wound surface while directing ultrasound toward deeper layers, effectively remodeling collagen morphology and composition akin to that of the normal skin, promoting macrophage polarization to the M2 phenotype, and facilitating in situ regeneration of hair follicles. Moreover, the patch allows real-time monitoring and prediction of wound recovery status by analyzing the wound resistance value, thereby facilitating high-quality wound healing. This technology will contribute to developing future therapeutic programs in clinical applications, demonstrating its significance in advancing wound healing progress.

Original languageEnglish
JournalAdvanced Functional Materials
DOIs
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 2025

Keywords

  • flexible electronics
  • multifunctional
  • physiotherapy
  • ultrasonic–electric coupling
  • wound monitoring

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Chen, Z., Du, J., Wang, Y., Li, Z., Song, W., Wei, R., Chen, D., Hua, Q., Fu, X., Huang, S., & Shen, G. (Accepted/In press). Fully Integrated Multifunctional Flexible Ultrasonic–Electric-Coupled Patches for Advancing Wound Care Paradigms. Advanced Functional Materials. https://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.202425025