Researchers at Binghamton University, State University of New York, have identified an innovative wound care approach that merges biodegradable papertronics with bacteria-fueled biobatteries. This novel method, spearheaded by Seokheun "Sean" Choi, PhD, and his team, was developed to address the persistent challenge of chronic wounds.
The research, published in the journal ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, utilized therapeutic dressings that leverage spore-forming bacteria to produce antibacterial agents and provide controlled electrical stimulation. These dressings are designed to inhibit biofilm formation, which is a common barrier to effective wound healing.
“The problem is that this environment is perfect for pathogen invasion because it’s nutrient-rich, moist, and warm. When they start to form a biofilm, it’s really hard to eradicate those pathogens, and the wound-healing process can be extended, sometimes for a year or longer,” Dr. Choi said in a news release. The team has integrated bacteria into the dressings, allowing them to remain dormant until activated by the moist wound environment, ensuring long-term storage and efficacy.
To enhance the antibacterial effectiveness, the researchers have incorporated copper oxide and tin oxide nanoparticles into the bacteria, generating a small electric current. This current disrupts the cell integrity of pathogens and stimulates healing, as demonstrated in tests on simulated human and pig skin. However, further investigation is required to optimize the electrical stimulation parameters for human application.
The research also explored the use of wearable microbial fuel cells (MFCs) built on a conductive hydrogel embedded in a paper-based substrate. This design not only sustains a moist environment conducive to healing but also stabilizes cell activity. The MFC framework, utilizing Bacillus subtilis endospores, autonomously generates electricity and antibacterial compounds, effectively combating pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus in both in vitro and ex vivo models.
This dual-function living dressing represents a significant advancement in wearable MFC-based wound care, potentially offering a promising solution for treating infected wounds.
“The beauty of using paper is its disposability, eliminating concerns about secondary infections, though further research is crucial to fully understand the healing mechanisms involved,” Dr. Choi noted.
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