Enhance Wound Healing Research Articles

Hyaluronic acid-based ε-polylysine/polyurethane asymmetric sponge for enhanced wound healing

Asymmetric sponge dressings with a hydrophobic surface and a hydrophilic inner layer can prevent bacterial infiltration and ensure efficient absorption of wound exudate. In this work, ε-polylysine/aliphatic polyurethane sponge (EPU) was prepared by prepolymer foaming process, and oxidized hyaluronic acid (OHA) was cross-linked with ε-polylysine (EPL) in EPU through schiff-base reaction to obtain EHPU. Octaisobutyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (Oi-POSS) was uniformly sprayed onto the surface of EHPU as the hydrophobic layer, resulting in asymmetric sponge dressings denoted as P-EHPU. These dressings demonstrate capabilities in resisting staining and bacterial invasion, with internal EPL effectively inhibiting bacterial proliferation on the wound surface. The introduction of OHA and EPL leads to a denser and more complete pore structure of the sponge, endowing it with good compression, tensile strength, and hemostatic performance. Wound healing studies indicate that P-EHPU effectively prevents external bacterial infiltration and promotes wound healing.

Development of phage-containing hydrogel for treating Enterococcus faecalis-infected wounds.

Chronic wound infections caused by Enterococcus faecalis pose formidable challenges in clinical management, exacerbated by the emergence of vancomycin-resistant strains. Phage therapy offers a targeted approach but encounters delivery hurdles. Due to their biocompatibility and controlled release properties, hydrogels hold promise as carriers. This study aimed to fabricate phage-containing hydrogels using sodium alginate (SA), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and hyaluronic acid (HA) to treat E. faecalis-infected wounds. We assessed the efficacy of these hydrogels both in vitro and in vivo. The hydrogel was prepared using SA-CMC-HA polymers. Phage SAM-E.f 12 was incorporated into the SA-CMC-HA hydrogel. The hydrogel's swelling index was measured after 24 h, and degradation was assessed over seven days. Surface morphology and composition were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Antibacterial activity was tested via optical density (OD) and disk diffusion assays. Phage release and stability were evaluated over a month. In vivo efficacy was tested in mice through wound healing and bacterial count assays, with histopathological analysis. Hydrogels exhibited a swelling index of 0.43, a water absorption rate of %30, and 23% degradation over seven days. FTIR confirmed successful polymer incorporation. In vitro studies demonstrated that phage-containing hydrogels significantly inhibited bacterial growth, with an OD of 0.3 compared to 1.1 for the controls. Hydrogels remained stable for four weeks. In vivo, phage-containing hydrogels reduced bacterial load and enhanced wound healing, as shown by improved epithelialization and tissue restoration. Phage-containing hydrogels effectively treat wounds infected with E. faecalis-infected wounds, promoting wound healing through controlled phage release. These hydrogels can improve clinical outcomes in the treatment of infected wounds.

Enhancing wound healing through innovative technologies: microneedle patches and iontophoresis

IntroductionWound healing is a complex process involving multiple stages, including inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Effective wound management strategies are essential for accelerating healing and improving outcomes. The CELLADEEP patch, incorporating iontophoresis therapy and microneedle technology, was evaluated for its potential to enhance the wound healing process.MethodsThis study utilized a full-thickness skin defect model in Sprague-Dawley rats, researchers compared wound healing outcomes between rats treated with the CELLADEEP Patch and those left untreated. Various histological staining techniques were employed to examine and assess the wound healing process, such as H&E, MT and immunofluorescence staining. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory and proliferative capabilities were further investigated using biochemical assays.ResultsMacroscopic and microscopic analyses revealed that the CELLADEEP patch significantly accelerated wound closure, reduced wound width, and increased epidermal thickness and collagen deposition compared to an untreated group. The CELLADEEP patch decreased nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species levels, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α, indicating effective modulation of the inflammatory response. Immunofluorescence staining showed reduced markers of macrophage activity (CD68, F4/80, MCP-1) in the patch group, suggesting a controlled inflammation process. Increased levels of vimentin, α-SMA, VEGF, collagen I, and TGF-β1 were observed, indicating enhanced fibroblast activity, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix production.DiscussionThe CELLADEEP patch demonstrated potential in promoting effective wound healing by accelerating wound closure, modulating the inflammatory response, and enhancing tissue proliferation and remodeling. The CELLADEEP patch offers a promising non-invasive treatment option for improving wound healing outcomes.

Gallic acid functionalized silk fibroin/gelatin composite wound dressing for enhanced wound healing.

ABSTRACT
As the incidence of chronic wounds increases, the requirements for wound dressings are rising. The specific aim of this study is to propose a novel gallic acid (GA) functionalized silk fibroin (SF) and gelatin (Gel) composite wound dressing in which GA is used as an antibacterial and wound healing substance. Via electrospinning, SF, Gel, and GA mixed solutions could be conveniently fabricated into a composite nanofiber mat (SF-Gel-GA), consisting of uniform fibers with an average diameter around 134.57 ± 84 nm. The internal mesh structure of SF-Gel-GA provides sufficient drug loading capacity, proper moisture permeability, and proper degradation rate. SF-Gel-GA presents excellent biocompatibility. NIH-3T3 fibroblast cells could adhere and spread stably on the SF-Gel-GA surface with slightly promoted proliferation. In the presence of SF-Gel-GA, the growth of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureusand Pseudomonas aeruginosa, is significantly inhibited in both plate and suspension cultures. A cutaneous excisional mouse wound model proves the efficient ability of SF-Gel-GA to promote wound healing. Compared with pure SF dressing and commercial Tegaderm Hydrocolloid3M dressing, the wound closure rate with SF-Gel-GA treatment is significantly improved. The histological assessments further demonstrate SF-Gel-GA could facilitate collagen deposition, neovascularization, and epithelialization at wound sites to promote wound healing. In conclusion, a novel SF-Gel-GA composite wound dressing with efficient wound healing activities have been developed for chronic wound treatment with broad healing potential.

Alginate-chitosan hydrogel formulations for VEGFA expressed baculovirus delivery promoting angiogenesis for wound healing and revascularization

Abstract Background Baculoviruses, engineered to express growth factors, offer a promising avenue for short-term gene therapy, such as wound dressings, due to their safety and specificity. Encapsulation in natural polymers like alginate and chitosan addresses limitations like serum inactivation and fragility, while promoting sustained delivery and shielding from immune inactivation. Wound healing involves complex processes that can be enhanced by maintaining an antimicrobial, moist environment, which promotes cell migration and angiogenesis. Vascular endothelial cell growth factor A (VEGFA) is known to be one of the most potent pro-angiogenic factors and plays a key role in wound healing. Purpose This investigation seeks to enhance wound healing and angiogenesis, support the revascularization process, and provide anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial effects. Additionally, it aims to assess the preclinical efficacy and safety of the approach. Methods Ionic cross-linking was used for virus encapsulation under aseptic conditions. The capsules were assessed for their surface morphology, particle size, zeta potential, and in vitro release profile. Additionally, their therapeutic potential was studied using cell lines. The efficacy of hydrogel delivery of VEGFA-expressing baculoviruses in promoting cell migration and angiogenesis for wound healing applications was investigated on Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs). Hydrogel morphology, swelling, and encapsulation efficiency were evaluated, along with endothelial tube formation assays and hemocompatibility studies on HUVECs. Results Encapsulation of baculovirus expressing the VEGFA gene in alginate and chitosan–alginate hydrogels achieve a high encapsulation efficiency of 99.9%. This allows for prolonged virus delivery and an increased therapeutic window. The encapsulated baculovirus maintains activity and is released over eight days, with a transduction efficiency of over 40%. This promotes tube formation, cell proliferation, and cell migration for angiogenesis, particularly beneficial for chronic wound-healing applications. The hydrogels also prevented E. coli and C. albicans growth directly below and inhibited C. albicans growth surrounding the alginate–chitosan hydrogels. The hydrogels demonstrated no cytotoxicity and good blood compatibility. Conclusion This proof of concept underscores the potential of encapsulated baculovirus delivery systems for various gene therapy applications including cardiovascular tissue regeneration and revascularization.

Blends of Silk Waste Protein and Polysaccharides for Enhanced Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration: Mechanisms, Applications, and Future Perspectives

Blends of Silk Waste Protein and Polysaccharides for Enhanced Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration: Mechanisms, Applications, and Future Perspectives

Mesenchymal Stem Cells Engineered by Multicomponent Coassembled DNA Nanofibers for Enhanced Wound Healing.

A major challenge for stem cell therapies, such as using mesenchymal stem cells to treat skin injuries, is the stable engraftment of exogenous cells and the maintenance of their regenerative capacities in the wound areas. DNA-based self-assembly strategies can be used for artificial and multifunctional cell surface engineering to stabilize and enhance their functions for therapeutic applications. Here, we developed DNA nanofiber-decorated stem cells, in which DNA-based, multivalent fiber-like structures were self-assembled in situ on the cell surfaces. These engineered stem cells have demonstrated robust reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging effects, specific adhesion to damaged vascular endothelial cells, and the ability to enhance angiogenesis, which were effective and safe for acute or chronic wound healing in a mouse model with excisional skin injury. This DNA nanostructure-engineered stem cell provides a novel therapeutic platform for the treatment of tissue damage.

Photothermally enhanced antibacterial wound healing using albumin-loaded tanshinone IIA and IR780 nanoparticles

Chronic and infected wounds, particularly those caused by bacterial infections, present significant challenges in medical treatment. This study aimed to develop a novel nanoparticle formulation to enhance wound healing by combining antimicrobial and photothermal therapy using albumin as a carrier for Tanshinone IIA and the near-infrared photothermal agent IR780. The nanoparticles were synthesized to exploit the antimicrobial effects of Tanshinone IIA and the photothermal properties of IR780 when exposed to near-infrared laser irradiation. Characterization of the nanoparticles was performed using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and spectroscopic analysis to confirm their successful synthesis. In vitro antibacterial activity was evaluated using cultures of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and in vivo efficacy was tested in a mouse model of MRSA-infected wounds. Wound healing progression was assessed over 16 days, with statistical analysis performed using two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post-hoc test. The nanoparticles demonstrated significant photothermal properties, enhancing bacterial eradication and promoting the controlled release of Tanshinone IIA. In vitro studies showed superior antibacterial activity, especially under photothermal activation, leading to a substantial reduction in bacterial viability in MRSA cultures. In vivo, nanoparticle treatment combined with near-infrared laser irradiation significantly improved wound closure rates compared to controls and treatments without photothermal activation. By the 16th day post-treatment, significant improvements in wound healing were observed, highlighting the potential of the combined photothermal and pharmacological approach. These findings suggest that albumin-loaded nanoparticles containing Tanshinone IIA and IR780, activated by near-infrared light, could offer an effective therapeutic strategy for managing chronic and infected wounds, promoting both infection control and tissue repair.

Evaluating the Effect of Argon and Helium Atmospheric Cold Plasma Jets on Wound Healing in Rats: A Comparative Histopathological and Biochemical Analysis

Background: Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has emerged as a promising therapy for wound healing to deliver controlled doses of reactive species to tissues. Argon and helium, as gases used in CAP, are noted for their unique properties and therapeutic potential. Objectives: This study compared the effects of argon and helium atmospheric cold plasma jets on wound healing in a rat model, assessing histopathological changes and biochemical parameters. Methods: This randomized, controlled experimental study involved 18 male Wistar rats randomly assigned to control, helium-treated, and argon-treated groups. Wounds were created between the shoulders under anesthesia, treated with respective plasmas, and monitored for healing progress through macroscopic and microscopic evaluations. Results: Hemoglobin (HGB) and hematocrit (HCT) levels were significantly higher in experimental groups compared to controls (P < 0.05), while mean corpuscular volume (MCV) was lower (P < 0.05). Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels were highest in helium-treated and lowest in argon-treated rats (P < 0.05). Argon-treated rats showed enhanced IL-6, hyperemia, angiogenesis, and re-epithelialization, with lower TNF-α and necrotic layer thickness than other groups (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Both argon and helium atmospheric cold plasma jets enhanced wound healing in rat models, demonstrating superior efficacy in promoting angiogenesis and re-epithelialization processes.

Dual-Responsive Antibacterial Hydrogel Patch for Chronic-Infected Wound Healing.

Bacterial infections in chronic wounds, such as bedsores and diabetic ulcers, present significant healthcare challenges. Excessive antibiotic use leads to drug resistance and lacks precision for targeted wound treatment. Our study introduces an innovative solution: a near-infrared (NIR) and pH dual-responsive hydrogel patch incorporating regenerated silk fibroin (RSF) and molybdenum dioxide (MoO2) nanoparticles (NPs), offering enhanced mechanical properties, precise drug release, and superior antibacterial efficacy. The dual-responsive hydrogel patch allows for precise control over antibiotic release triggered by NIR light and pH fluctuations, enabling tailored treatment for infected wounds. First, the pH-responsive characteristic matches the alkaline environment of the infected wound, ensuring on-demand antibiotic release. Second, NIR exposure accelerates antibiotic release, enhancing wound healing and providing additional antibacterial effects. Additionally, the patch further blocks bacterial infection, promotes wound repair, and degrades in sync with the healing process, further bolstering the efficacy against wound infections.

Formulation and Evaluation of Vancomycin Loaded Chitosan/Aloe Vera Hydrogel: A Novel Antibacterial Biopolymeric System

The combination of herbal and biopolymeric agents holds significant potential for enhancing wound healing. Aloe vera, known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and regenerative properties, has long been used to treat wounds and burns. Chitosan, as a well-known biopolymer, promotes collagen synthesis, fibroblast recruitment and aiding granulation tissue formation. This study explored the formulation of a chitosan/Aloe vera hydrogel loaded with vancomycin, as a potential wound care product. The hydrogel was prepared using chitosan and aloe vera in 1:1 and 1:2 ratios. After homogenization, 1% vancomycin was incorporated. All physical characterizations, drug loading and drug release studies were performed on prepared formulations. Antimicrobial activity also was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, both physical and performance properties of gels were assessed over three months under room temperature and refrigerated conditions. The study found that the gels remained stable, with no changes in color, flowability, uniformity, or viscosity during stability assessments. Both formulations released their entire drug content within two hours when kept at room temperature and in the refrigerator. No signs of separation or degradation were observed over the three-month period, demonstrating the gel’s stability. Formulations showed acceptable antimicrobial activity against both mentioned bacterial strains. In conclusion, the chitosan/Aloe vera gel containing vancomycin showed desirable properties, making it a promising candidate for wound healing. Its antimicrobial activity and ability to support tissue regeneration suggest it as a valuable treatment for accelerating the wound-healing process.

Development of Biomaterials to Modulate the Function of Macrophages in Wound Healing.

Wound healing is a complex and precisely regulated process that encompasses multiple stages, including inflammation, anti-inflammation, and tissue repair. It involves various cells and signaling molecules, with macrophages demonstrating a significant degree of plasticity and playing a crucial regulatory role at different stages. In recent years, the use of biomaterials, which include both natural and synthetic polymers or macromolecules, has proliferated for the purpose of enhancing wound healing. This review summarizes how these diverse biomaterials promote wound healing by modulating macrophage behavior and examines the broader implications of these modulations. Additionally, we discuss the limitations associated with the clinical application of immunomodulatory biomaterials and propose potential solutions. Finally, we look towards future developments in the design of immunomodulatory biomaterials intended to enhance wound healing.

Collaborative Enhancement of Diabetic Wound Healing and Skin Regeneration by Recombinant Human Collagen Hydrogel and hADSCs.

Stem cell-based therapies hold significant promise for chronic wound healing and skin appendages regeneration, but challenges such as limited stem cell lifespan and poor biocompatibility of delivery systems hinder clinical application. In this study, an in situ delivery system for human adipose-derived stem cells is developed (hADSCs) to enhance diabetic wound healing. The system utilizes a photo-crosslinking recombinant human type III collagen (rHCIII) hydrogel to encapsulate hADSCs, termed the hADSCs@rHCIII hydrogel. This hydrogel undergoes local crosslinking at the wound site, establishing a sturdy 3D niche suitable for stem cell function. Consequently, the encapsulated hADSCs exhibit strong attachment and spreading within the hydrogels, maintaining their proliferation, metabolic activity, and viability for up to three weeks in vitro. Importantly, in vivo studies demonstrate that the hADSCs@rHCIII hydrogel achieves significant in situ delivery of stem cells, prolonging their retention within the wound. This ultimately enhances their immunomodulatory capabilities, promotes neovascularization and granulation tissue formation, facilitates matrix remodeling, and accelerates healing in a diabetic mouse wound model. Collectively, these findings highlight the potential of the conveniently-prepared and user-friendly hADSCs@rHCIII hydrogel as a promising therapeutic approach for diabetic wound treatment and in situ skin regeneration.

Metal–phenolic nanozyme based microneedle patch with antibacterial and antioxidant for infected wound healing

Chronic bacterial-infected wound healing is becoming increasingly severe, with high rates of mortality and disability, owing to bacterial film, excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), inflammatory, and traditional therapeutics with poor drug permeability. Herin, a functional Zn-gallic acid nanozyme (Zn-NM) with excellent antibacterial and antioxidant capacity was incorporated with a gelatin-based microneedle patch (Zn-NM@MN) to achieve transdermal and sustained release of the drug at the infected wound site. The Zn-NM displayed the concentration-dependent antibacterial capacity, and 250 μg/mL of Zn-NM simultaneously possessed excellent antibacterial (89.36 ± 0.95 % for Escherichia coli, 92.44 ± 11.03 % for Staphylococcus aureus, and 95.03 ± 1.06 % for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), antioxidant properties and negligible cytotoxicity. After that, Zn-NM@MN could transdermal the epidermis or biofilm to sustain the release of Zn-NM for 3 h (release of 80 % drug). Systematic tissue regeneration assessment on rats’ infected full-thickness skin wounds demonstrated an enhanced wound healing rate. Zn-NM@MN could efficiently kill the bacteria (about 85 %), alleviate oxidant stress, reduce bacterial-induced inflammation, and promote vascular regeneration. This synergetic therapy strategy will pave the way for treating complicated infection wounds.

The Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for Flap Salvage

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) effectively manages complex wounds by promoting fluid drainage, stabilizing the wound environment, and reducing bacterial load. It aids in granulation tissue formation and modulation of inflammatory reactions. NPWT is increasingly used in reconstructive surgery, particularly in flap procedures, enhancing wound healing and cosmetic outcomes while reducing flap complications. Despite concerns about flap compromise, clinical trials demonstrate low flap loss rates with NPWT. Strategies like observation windows and implantable Doppler devices help overcome monitoring challenges. However, conclusive evidence regarding NPWT's safety and impact on flap vascularity is limited due to scarce studies. The study involved 40 healthy adult patients, mostly male, with soft tissue defects primarily caused by road traffic accidents. They were split into two groups: NPWT (25 patients) and conventional dressing (15 patients). The NPWT group was further categorized into high pressure (8 patients) and low pressure (17 patients) subgroups. Results showed lower flap edema in NPWT groups compared to controls, but high pressure NPWT led to higher flap ischemia and infection rates. Overall, low pressure NPWT yielded the best clinical and aesthetic outcomes with fewer complications. The study suggests a delayed NPWT approach and low-pressure settings for optimal vascular perfusion in Fasciocutaneous flaps, emphasizing the need for further trials to establish its efficacy and determine ideal pressure settings for different flap types.

The Effects of Marine Fungal Asterripeptides A-C on In Vitro and In Vivo Staphylococcus aureus Skin Infection.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo antibacterial and cytoprotective activities of marine fungal tripeptide derivatives with cinnamic acid moiety asterripeptides A-C (1-3). Methods: The antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of asterripeptides A-C were tested using the Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 21027 strain. Human HaCaT keratinocytes infected with S. aureus were used for the in vitro investigation of the various aspects of the influence of asterripeptides A-C by lumino- and fluorospectrometry, ELISA, flow cytometry, Western blotting, and microscopy techniques. In the in vivo experiments, mice with burns and scalped S. aureus-infected wounds were used according to ethical committee resolution. Results: Asterripeptides A-C (10 µM) inhibited S. aureus growth and biofilm formation. Asterripeptides A-C increased the viability, proliferation, and migration of S. aureus-infected HaCaT cells and reduced the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), NO, TNF-α, and IL-18. Asterripeptides A-C protected HaCaT cells against TNF-α-induced inflammation, decreased the transcriptional level of NF-κB in JB6 Cl41 cells, and increased the protein levels of Nrf2 and glutathione synthetase in HaCaT cells. More active asterripeptide C was tested in in vivo burn wounds and S. aureus-infected incised wounds. Asterripeptide C significantly enhanced wound healing, normalized cytokine levels and profiles of peripheral blood samples, and decreased S. aureus contamination of wounds and blood in mice with infected incised wounds. Conclusions: Taken together, these results confirm the dual antibacterial and Nrf2-dependent anti-inflammatory activities of asterripeptides A-C in in vitro and in vivo assays.

Tailoring surgical sutures with chitosan and non-thermal atmospheric plasma: biofunctionalization for antimicrobial efficacy and enhanced wound healing

Surgical sutures serve as medical devices designed to facilitate the closure of wounds by securing opposing tissues. While sutures are an integral part of the surgical healing process, also present favorable surfaces for microbial attachment, increasing surgical site infections (SSIs). In this study, sutures that have antimicrobial and improved wound healing properties are described as novel approaches for minimizing SSIs. The absorbable multifilament suture, poly (glycolic-co-lactic acid) (PGLA), and non-absorbable multifilament suture (silk) are treated with non-thermal atmospheric plasma (NTAP) and subsequently coated with chitosan/chitosan nanoparticles (Ch/ChNp). Suture samples are analyzed in terms of antibacterial properties, in vitro bioactivity, wound healing efficiency, mechanical strength, chemical characterization, and surface morphologies. Bacterial adherence of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli on both sutures is inhibited effectively due to the surface modification after plasma treatment. The NTAP treatment results in reduced wound healing for silk sutures without a selective effect on PGLA sutures. However, subsequent coating with Ch/ChNp significantly enhances wound healing for both sutures. Although the maximum tensile strength decreases after NTAP treatment, improves following the Ch/ChNp coating. Our findings indicate that the developed sutures demonstrate notable antimicrobial properties, enhance wound healing, and hold promise as a potential material for suturing applications.

Bacterial cellulose nanofiber reinforced self-healing hydrogel to construct a theranostic platform of antibacterial and enhanced wound healing

In order to promote wound healing, self-healing hydrogels with moisturizing property are employed as wound dressing. In this study, bacterial cellulose nanofibers (BCN) with high mechanical strength are used as reinforcement to improve the mechanical properties of self-healing hydrogels. A multifunctional self-healing hydrogel has been constructed by incorporating natural biomass, including Ag hybrid bacterial cellulose nanofiber (Ag-BCN), resveratrol (Res), and carbon nanodots (CNDs). The results of in vitro experiments demonstrate that the mechanical strength of the hybrid hydrogel was increased by 6 times with the addition of Ag-BCN, which also offers excellent antibacterial efficiency (S. aureus 99.99 % and E. coli 99.68 %). The hydrogel with CNDs can observe the healing process of the crack in real time and realize the controlled release of Res through photothermal effect. Moreover, the results of animal model experiments indicate that the prepared hydrogel could reduce the infection of the wound, effectively shorten the progress of wound healing (from 21d to 14 d). All the results imply that the prepared hydrogel has great promise in the application of skin wound healing.

Global Trends and Scientific Impact of Topical Probiotics in Dermatological Treatment and Skincare.

The skin plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and protecting against external aggressors. Recent research has highlighted the potential of probiotics and postbiotics in dermatological treatments and skincare. These beneficial microorganisms interact with the skin microbiota, modulate the immune response, and enhance the skin barrier, offering a promising therapeutic avenue for various skin conditions, such as acne, dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis. This bibliometric study aims to analyze the global trends and scientific impact of topical probiotics in dermatology. By reviewing 106 articles published between 2013 and 2023, the study categorizes the applications of probiotics in wound healing, inflammatory skin diseases, and general skincare. The findings indicate a significant increase in publications from 2021 onwards, attributed to the heightened focus on medical research during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study also identifies the most productive countries, institutions, and authors in this field, highlighting the importance of international collaborations. The results underscore the efficacy of probiotic-based topical formulations in improving skin health, reducing inflammation, and enhancing wound healing. This comprehensive analysis supports the development of new therapeutic strategies based on topical probiotics and encourages high-quality research in this promising area.

Antibacterial gelatin/tragacanth gum films containing galbanum essential oil for in vitro scratch-healing

Natural substances and bioactive agents possess great potential in wound care based on their ability to promote healing and prevent infection. This study focused on the fabrication of antibacterial wound dressings by combining gelatin (G), tragacanth gum (TG), and galbanum essential oil (GEO) as a loaded drug. TG addition resulted in more elastic and flexible films besides enabling encapsulation of the hydrophobic GEO into the biopolymeric matrix. GEO was utilized as an antibacterial and a wound-healing enhancer for open wounds such as incisions. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) analysis revealed a porous film structure after GEO incorporation. Higher GEO concentration caused reduced swelling and slower degradation. Water vapor transfer rate varied from 596 to 894 g/m2.day, making the films suitable for wound dressings. GEO release exhibited a two-phase profile with prolonged diffusion-controlled release for a higher content of GEO. The films demonstrated dose-dependent antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and E. coli strains. Effectiveness and noteworthy application of this research were approved by scratch assay on human dermal fibroblast cells, and films with 3 % GEO showed 79.42 % wound closure, which is significantly higher than the control sample (55.15 %), indicating promoted cell migration and promising wound healing properties.