Researchers from the Italian Institute of Technology have created a biocompatible bandage composed of plant-based materials loaded with vitamin C for expediting the healing of burn wounds.

Described as an environmentally sustainable alternative to skin patches, the biocompatible bandage can reportedly reduce the incidence of inflammation in burn wounds, which can encourage the generation of oxygen free radicals that subsequently impede the healing process.

The bandage is made from a new biodegradable material developed by the team, consisting of zein, a protein obtained from maize; pectin, a sugar found in the peel of many fruits, like for example an apple; and soy lecithin, a substance sourced from the like-named plant. Source: Italian Institute of Technology

Further, the bandage can also reportedly reduce the number of free radicals, thereby shortening the time necessary for healing.

The researchers also noted that the bandage — which is composed of zein, a protein derived from maize; pectin, a sugar from the peel of fruits, like the apple; and soy lecithin — naturally degrades within a few days.

To create the bandage, the team infused the material with vitamin C, which is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Applied to a burn, the bandage will gradually release the vitamin C, which subsequently stabilizes inflammation levels and mitigates the production of free radicals.

In the lab, the team determined that the bandage both reduced inflammation and encouraged healing during in vitro tests on keratinocytes, which are the cells that constitute the skin. They are also eyeing the bandage for use on other types of wounds such as lacerations or skin ulcers.

An article detailing the bandage, “Plant-Based, Hydrogel-like Microfibers as an Antioxidant Platform for Skin Burn Healing,” appears in the journal ACS Applied Bio Materials.