New oxygen gel could prevent amputation in diabetic wound patients
Science Daily
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A groundbreaking new oxygen gel developed by researchers at UC Riverside could revolutionize wound care, particularly for diabetic patients at risk of amputation. Chronic wounds, often caused by poor blood flow or high sugar levels in diabetes, are slow to heal and prone to infection. The innovative gel delivers a steady supply of oxygen directly to the deepest layers of damaged tissue, bypassing the body’s inability to provide sufficient oxygen on its own. This continuous delivery system, powered by a small battery, has shown remarkable results in preclinical trials, with wounds healing in just weeks rather than worsening or leading to amputation.
The gel works by targeting hypoxia—the lack of oxygen in tissues—which is a major barrier to wound healing. Unlike traditional treatments that only address surface-level issues, the gel adapts to the shape of the wound and fills gaps where oxygen levels are lowest. It splits water molecules to release oxygen steadily over time, supporting the body’s natural healing processes. This sustained delivery is critical because new blood vessel formation can take weeks, and brief bursts of oxygen are insufficient for effective repair.
In addition to delivering oxygen, the gel contains choline, a compound that helps regulate immune activity and reduce excessive inflammation. Chronic wounds often have high levels of reactive oxygen species, which damage cells and prolong healing. By calming this overactive inflammatory response while providing stable oxygen, the gel creates a more favorable environment for tissue repair. This dual approach not only accelerates healing but also reduces the risk of infection and tissue breakdown.
The implications of this innovation extend beyond wound care. The researchers see potential applications in regenerative medicine, where oxygen and nutrient shortages often hinder efforts to grow replacement tissues or organs. By addressing these challenges, the gel could pave the way for breakthroughs in treating chronic wounds and even lab-grown organ transplants. For now, its ability to help diabetic patients avoid amputation represents a major step forward in improving
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Originally published on Science Daily on 2/22/2026