New Delhi: Italian researchers have developed a new bandage developed from biodegradable materials and infused with vitamin C, which accelerates the healing process of burns.
The bandage developed by a team at the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) is made of zein, a protein obtained from corn. Pectin — A sugar found in the skin of many fruits, such as apples. Soy lecithin – a substance obtained from the plant of the same name.
After a burn, the body’s natural defense mechanism causes inflammation, causing the area to become red and swollen. However, excessive inflammation can have the opposite effect, causing the production of oxygen free radicals and interfering with the healing process.
The new bandage, detailed in the journal ACS Applied Bio Materials, was found to be able to prevent increased levels of inflammation, reduce the number of free radicals, and reduce the time needed for healing.
“This is just one possible application for this category of smart materials,” said Athanasia Athanasio, principal scientist at IIT’s Smart Materials Unit.
“We are also working on the development of other devices that can speed up the healing of not only burns, but also different types of wounds, such as lacerations, skin ulcers and pathologies,” Attanasio added.
Importantly, the bandage degrades naturally within a few days, making it an environmentally sustainable alternative to skin patches, the researchers said.
