Chronic wounds are difficult to treat because cytokines — the signaling proteins for inflammation and healing — often break down quickly and do not remain at the wound site. To address this, researchers at Rice University, with support from the Rice Biotech Launch Pad, created a living bandage designed to produce therapeutic cytokines in place over time. The work is reported in Nature Biomedical Engineering.
The device uses encapsulated, engineered cells as on-site factories inside a biocompatible hydrogel matrix. The hydrogel permits exchange of nutrients and proteins while shielding the cells from the host immune system. The platform is modular, so the engineered cells can be changed to produce different cytokines, growth factors or other proteins.
In preclinical tests the patch accelerated healing in murine and porcine excisional wound models. Molecular analyses showed coordinated upregulation of genes linked to tissue regeneration and immune modulation, which likely explains the improved repair seen in the animals.
Difficult words
- cytokine — Signaling protein for inflammation and healing.cytokines
- encapsulate — To put cells inside a protective layer.encapsulated
- hydrogel — A water-rich gel used in medicine.
- biocompatible — Not harmful to living tissue or body.
- immune system — Body's defenses against infection and disease.
- modular — Made of parts that can be changed.
- upregulation — An increase in how much a gene is active.
- regeneration — Process of tissue growth and repair.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What advantages might a living bandage have compared to regular bandages or creams? Give one or two reasons.
- The platform is modular so cells can be changed to make different proteins. How could this flexibility help doctors treat different wounds?
- What concerns might patients or doctors have about using a bandage with living engineered cells?
Related articles
AI tool helps local autism diagnosis in Missouri
Researchers at the University of Missouri tested the FDA-approved CanvasDx, an AI device, to help primary care evaluate autism where specialty centres are far away. In a study it gave determinate results for 52% of 80 children and matched clinicians' diagnoses.
Pet care at One Health Clinic helps youth get medical care
A study found that youth experiencing homelessness were more likely to receive medical care when clinics also offered veterinary care for their pets. The research looked at clients of the One Health Clinic in downtown Seattle and records from 2019–2022.
