The human skin, the body's largest organ, is a protective barrier with crucial functions in temperature regulation and sensory perception. However, severe injuries such as burns often challenge its regenerative capacity, needing effective wound treatment strategies. Hydrogels based on natural polymers have emerged as promising solutions for wound care, particularly when combined with advanced fabrication techniques, such as 3D printing. This study aimed to develop and characterize 3D printable hydrogels composed of alginate and gelatin due to their notable properties of biocompatibility and biomimicry. The incorporation of crosslinking agents, including calcium chloride (CaCl2) and transglutaminase (TGase), was investigated to enhance the mechanical and biochemical properties of the hydrogels. The effects of polymer concentration and crosslinking on hydrogel performance were evaluated through comprehensive analysis, including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), swelling tests, and printability assessments. The influence of bioactive substances, such as green tea extract, on swelling behavior and printability was examined. The results of this work demonstrate that optimized formulations, such as ALG2.5GEL4 (Alginate2.5:Gelatin4) and ALG4GEL4 (Alginate:4Gelatin4), exhibit superior printing and swelling characteristics, indicating their potential for use in wound treatment applications. Incorporating bioactive compounds within the hydrogel matrix aimed to improve therapeutic outcomes and promote wound healing. Furthermore, extrusion-based 3D printing technology enables precise control of material deposition, facilitating the fabrication of customized dressings tailored for individual patient needs. This interdisciplinary approach, using natural polymers, bioactive substances, and advanced manufacturing techniques, holds great potential to revolutionize regenerative medicine and advance healthcare practices, enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.
