Alginate is a naturally derived
polysaccharide widely applied in
drug delivery, as well as regenerative medicine, tissue engineering and
wound care. Due to its excellent biocompatibility, low toxicity, and the ability to absorb a high amount of exudate, it is widely used in modern
wound dressings. Numerous studies indicate that
alginate applied in
wound care can be enhanced with the incorporation of nanoparticles, revealing additional properties beneficial in the healing process. Among the most extensively explored materials, composite dressings with
alginate loaded with antimicrobial inorganic nanoparticles can be mentioned. However, other types of nanoparticles with
antibiotics,
growth factors, and other active ingredients are also investigated. This review article focuses on the most recent findings regarding novel
alginate-based materials loaded with nanoparticles and their applicability as
wound dressings, with special attention paid to the materials of potential use in the treatment of chronic
wounds.