A healing dressing has been developed that detects infection in the wound

Researchers at Linköping University have developed a nanocellulose bandage that can detect

early signs of infection. Diagnostics does not interfere with the wound healing process, allows you to change dressings in a timely manner and prevent the formation of a severe infection.

The bandage is made of dense meshnanocellulose, which prevents the penetration of bacteria and other microbes. At the same time, the material passes gases and liquids, which is important for wound healing. The developed structure allows you to leave a bandage on the affected area of ​​the skin during the entire healing period. If it is necessary to replace when the wound becomes infected, the coating changes its color.

Structure and principle of operation of the healing coating. Image: Olof Eskilson et al., Materials Today Bio

Uninfected wounds have a pH value of about 5.5.When an infection occurs, the wound becomes progressively more alkaline and may have a pH value of 8 or even higher. This is because the bacteria in the wound change their environment to create an optimal environment for their growth. Changes in the pH level in a wound can be detected long before pus, pain, or redness, which are the most common signs of infection, develops.

When making the dressing, the researchers appliedbromthymol blue on a silica material with pores only a few nanometers in size. In an alkaline environment (at a pH greater than 7), this dye changes color from yellow to blue. The silica material was combined with the dressing without compromising the properties of the nanocellulose. When an infection occurs, such a bandage turns blue.

Change in color of the coating when the wound becomes infected. Image: Olof Eskilson et al., Materials Today Bio

Infections in wounds are usually treatedantibiotics that affect the entire body. The researchers believe that early diagnosis will allow for topical treatment that does not require powerful antibiotics. With the continued development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, such treatment will preserve the effectiveness of existing drugs for difficult infections.

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Cover image: Olov Planthaber