Antibiotics-free and nutrient-based formulations for chronic wound healing

• Grant number: 23/08397-9
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: October 01, 2023
• End date: September 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy - Toxicological Analysis
• Agreement: University of Surrey
• Mobility Program: SPRINT - Projetos de pesquisa - Mobilidade
• Principal Investigator: Silvya Stuchi Maria-Engler
• Grantee: Silvya Stuchi Maria-Engler
• Principal researcher abroad: Lian Xiang Liu
• Institution abroad: University of Surrey, England
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCF). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/09245-5 - Metastatic potential of peroxyredoxin 2 in NRAs-mutated Melanomas, AP.R

Abstract

Chronic wounds affect a significant portion of the global population, particularly older adults with underlying health complications such as diabetes. The complex pathophysiology of chronic wounds involves persistent inflammation, reduced growth factor expression, and potential bacterial biofilm formation. Current treatment options lack specificity and face challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance. This research collaboration aims to explore the use of nutrients-based, antibiotics-free formulations for the prevention and treatment of chronic wounds while combating antimicrobial resistance.The University of Surrey (UoS) has developed bioactive formulations with proven efficacy in wound healing, tissue remodeling, and antibiofilm and antibacterial properties. These formulations consist of compounds such as vitamin E, vitamin A, and a biocide PHMB. Additionally, separate formulations with curcumin and ascorbic acid have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. The combination of these compounds aims to achieve synergistic benefits with minimal adverse effects.The University of São Paulo (USP) specializes in skin tissue bioengineering and the development of alternative methods to animal experimentation. They have expertise in constructing in vitro 3D human skin models that can provide valuable insights into physiological and pathological questions. These models have been successfully used to assess the efficacy and safety of various ingredients and anti-tumoral treatments.The collaboration between UoS and USP aims to validate the bioactive formulations using customized 3D cell models that mimic infected wound beds. The formulations will be tested for their ability to penetrate and clear bacteria biofilms, kill bacteria, and promote tissue regeneration. Additionally, the formulations may be used as prophylactic agents to prevent acute wounds from becoming chronic.The exchange activities involve researchers from each institution spending one month in the partner's laboratory, working on constructing and dosing 3D skin models and assessing the performance and efficacy of the formulations. The collaboration also presents an opportunity to explore formulations for other skin diseases, such as skin cancer, leveraging the antibacterial properties of the formulations.The potential impact of this research collaboration includes providing alternative or adjuvant treatments for chronic wounds, exploring antimicrobial efficacy for non-life-threatening infections, disseminating knowledge through seminars and lectures, and publishing research findings in high-impact journals. The project's outcomes hold promise for the development of new healthcare treatments and the growth of the pharmaceutical industry, benefiting individuals, the economy, and various industries. (AU)