In a significant study published in the journal Applied Sciences, the team explored the efficacy of modified bacterial cellulose (BC) using low-pressure Argon plasma. The goal was to control the release of glycoside hydrolases—PelAh and PslGh—from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, known for their antibiofilm activity crucial in wound care.
Fig 1: -SEM images of the surface morphology the BC (a) and the Ar_BC after Ar_BC after 480 s LPArP treatment.
Image courtesy of https://doi.org/10.3390/app13137797
(https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/13/13/7797)
Key Findings
The study observed substantial alterations in the chemical composition and morphology of BC surfaces following low-pressure Argon plasma treatment. This transformation, characterised by the introduction of charged functional groups and a shift towards a more amorphous structure, highlights the potential of modified BC.
The modified BC, treated with the Henniker HPT-100 System (pictured below) proves to be a promising carrier for PelAh and PslGh. The enzymes, when immobilized on this modified BC, maintained their efficacy in reducing biofilm levels. This technology exhibits potential in inhibiting the development of P. aeruginosa biofilms, enhancing wound care outcomes.
Image – The Henniker Plasma HPT-100 System
Implications for Practical Use
- Enhanced wound-dressing material: BC emerges as a highly promising material for advanced wound care solutions.
- Antibacterial and antiviral properties: Modified BC with Argon plasma treatment holds promise for preventing bacterial infections.
- Controlled enzyme release: PelAh and PslGh release from BC can be tailored to combat biofilm formation, a critical factor in wound healing.
This research presents practical applications for more advanced and interactive dressing materials, actively supporting the wound healing process. For further details on the developments in wound care facilitated by the research findings and the role of Henniker Plasma's HPT-100 Plasma Cleaner in enabling effective experimentation, readers are referred to the original paper published on July 1, 2023, available through the provided DOI link.
