#$%^&*AU2014101334A420141218.pdf#####ABSTRACT The present invention discloses aminoglycosides for cross-linking alginate molecules which result in stronger bonds than alginate cross-linked with calcium alone. Suitable aminoglycosides include antibiotic aminoglycosides such as streptomycin, kanamycin, tobramycin, gentamicin, and neomycin. The resulting cross-linked alginates may be used in wound dressings.