Magnesium-loaded carbon quantum dots in polycaprolactone scaffolds enhance angiogenesis and accelerate wound healing: In vitro, In Ovo, and in vivo evidence.

Wound healing and tissue regeneration are critical challenges, particularly in chronic conditions such as diabetes, where impaired angiogenesis often delays recovery. In this study, a novel bioactive wound dressing was developed by synthesizing magnesium-loaded carbon quantum dots (Mg-CQDs) and incorporating them into polycaprolactone (PCL) electrospun scaffolds. CQDs were prepared hydrothermally and subsequently bonded with Mg²⁺ ions via ionic interaction, forming nanocomposites with enhanced fluorescence and bioactivity. Characterization confirmed their structural integrity and surface modification. In vitro scratch assays using PC12 cells demonstrated significantly improved cell migration with Mg-CQD treatment. In ovo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assays showed enhanced neovascularization, and in vivo wound healing studies in rats revealed accelerated tissue regeneration, increased epithelialization, and collagen deposition in Mg-CQD-treated groups compared to controls. Compared to the reference group, VLDM enhancements ranged from 0.611 % to 0.749 % for the CQD group and from 0.802 % to 1.19 % for the CQD-Mg group. These results suggest that Mg-CQD-loaded PCL scaffolds offer a multifunctional platform for promoting angiogenesis and wound repair, combining structural support with targeted ion delivery and potential theranostic applications.