Plasma-Processed Bioprinted Chitosan Hydrogels : Enhancing Physicochemical and Antibacterial Properties for Wound Healing

Abstract

Effective wound healing requires scaffolds that can prevent infection and support tissue regeneration. Bioprinted chitosan hydrogels are promising candidates due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and tunable properties. To further enhance their functionality, we employed two plasma processing strategies using cold atmospheric pressure plasma jets. The plasma treatment of the chitosan solvent used to prepare the hydrogel markedly enhanced the mechanical strength, thermal stability, and antibacterial characteristics (≥2-log reduction) of the bioprinted scaffolds, rendering them suitable for applications requiring long-term durability and infection resistance. The plasma treatment of the already printed scaffolds improved surface bioactivity, facilitating enhanced cell adhesion and proliferation, which are essential for tissue regeneration.