Microbial cellulose--the natural power to heal wounds.
Microbial cellulose (MC) synthesized in abundance by Acetobacter xylinum shows vast potential as a novel wound healing system. The high mechanical strength and remarkable physical properties result from the unique nanostructure of the never-dried membrane. This article attempts to briefly summarize the recent developments and applications of MC in the emerging field of novel wound dressings and skin substitutes. It considers the properties of the synthesized material, its clinical performance, as well as progress in the commercialization of MC for wound care products. Efficient and inexpensive fermentation techniques, not presently available, will be necessary to produce large quantities of the polymer.
Czaja
Wojciech
W
Institute of Technical Biochemistry, Technical University of Lodz, Stefanowskiego 4/10, Lodz 90-924, Poland. czajawoj@p.lodz.pl
Krystynowicz
Alina
A
Bielecki
Stanislaw
S
Brown
R Malcolm
RM
D047070:Bandages, Hydrocolloid; D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001684:Biological Dressings; D002482:Cellulose / Q000648:ultrastructure; D041822:Gluconacetobacter xylinus / Q000737:chemistry*; D006801:Humans; D017768:Skin, Artificial; D014945:Wound Healing
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D002482:Cellulose