Engineered bioaerogel particles: a core-shell approach to adenosine delivery for wound healing

Chronic wounds require advanced biomaterials that combine structural integrity with controlled drug delivery. This study reports the development of novel core–shell aerogel particle systems based on silk fibroin (SF), silk sericin (SS), and alginate (ALG) designed for the controlled delivery of adenosine (ADO), a molecule known for anti-inflammatory and angiogenic properties, which can play a role in the process of wound healing. Leveraging the biocompatibility, porosity, and tunable properties of these natural polymers, a core–shell architecture was engineered by combining prilling and supercritical CO₂ drying technologies. The particles were composed of a SF/ALG core and an ALG or an ALG combined with a SS shell. All particle compositions exhibited high porosity (94–97%) and a pH-responsive swelling behavior. FTIR and PCA confirmed structural integrity and composition. ADO encapsulation achieved moderate loading and controlled-release profiles, influenced by shell composition. Biological evaluation confirmed biocompatibility in human dermal fibroblasts, keratinocytes, and endothelial cells. Although no significant differences were observed, the reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines and angiogenesis by ADO-loaded particles in CAM assays support their potential as multifunctional wound-healing platforms.