A dual-functional PEG-tyrosine hydrogel with photothermal effect and antioxidant capacity for cancer therapy and tissue regeneration.

Achieving optimal tumor eradication while minimizing off-target toxicity and enhancing patient recovery remains a central challenge in translational oncology. Traditional therapies such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy are associated with systemic toxicities and resistance, compromising outcomes. Photothermal therapy provides spatial targeting and a minimally invasive approach but risks collateral tissue damage, particularly to skin. We report an injectable, biodegradable PEG-tyrosine hydrogel with oxidative modification (PETyrO) designed for dual-function tumor photothermal therapy and post-treatment wound regeneration. PETyrO is prepared in two steps: (i) ring-opening polymerization of L-tyrosine N-carboxyanhydride (Tyr-NCA) monomers, followed by (ii) enzymatic oxidation using tyrosinase. The hydrogel forms at a final concentration of 100 mg/mL before injection. Owing to its phenolic groups, PETyrO exhibits pronounced reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging capacity, promoting epithelial regeneration at treatment sites. In summary, the melanin-like, biocompatible system shows minimal cytotoxicity, achieves a photothermal conversion efficiency of 36% at 808 nm and integrates ROS scavenging with wound-healing properties. More importantly, unlike traditional dopamine-based hydrogels, this peptide hydrogel features a well-defined structural framework and can degrade gradually