These wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers and pressure sores, remain largely untreated by conventional dressings because of their depth and complexity. The INJECTHeal hydrogel aims to reach deep wound pockets, deliver medication directly, reduce infection and inflammation, and actively support tissue regeneration from within.  

Launching in May 2025, the 3.5-year initiative has secured approximately €7.3 million in EU funding. At Brighton alone, more than €1.1 million will support preclinical testing of the hydrogel’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and angiogenic properties – critical functions for effective wound revascularisation and repair.  

The project brings together 13 partners across eight European countries, including academic, clinical, and industry contributors, as well as patient advocates embedded from the outset to ensure real-world alignment.  

Professor Matteo Santin, who leads the initiative, emphasises that advancing materials science for wound care must be rooted in patient needs: “INJECTHeal is about more than science. The hydrogel will be designed with, not just for, patients… restoring dignity to people who have waited too long for effective solutions.”