WANA (Jan 09) – Iranian researchers have innovated a biodegradable microneedle patch capable of releasing oxygen to treat chronic wounds by addressing hypoxic conditions.

 

When the human body suffers an injury, the metabolic process of skin repair requires oxygen for wound-healing physiological activities. In the case of chronic wounds, hypoxia, or low oxygen conditions, can occur, delaying the healing process.

 

Studies have shown that microneedle patches improve wound healing. Recent research has explored the potential of oxygen-releasing microneedle patches; however, such patches often involve complex production and control processes and fail to eliminate toxic cellular byproducts.

 

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To address these challenges, a research team developed a biodegradable and mechanically robust microneedle patch made from gelatin methacryloyl. The patch penetrates tissue and releases oxygen when exposed to the body’s interstitial fluids and wound exudates. The team optimized the oxygen release rate and biocompatibility of the patch using various formulations.

 

Laboratory tests (in vitro) revealed that the optimized compositions release oxygen at therapeutic levels, significantly enhancing the survival of hypoxic chronic cells, enabling them to align with cells in normal oxygen concentrations.

 

Animal testing (in vivo) further demonstrated that the optimized oxygen-releasing microneedle patch caused no harm or disruption to the wound-healing process in a severely injured lab mouse.

 

This innovative therapeutic approach presents a promising avenue for overcoming hypoxia and, consequently, treating chronic wounds.