A Novel Bioengineered Wound Product with In Vitro Capabilities to Reduce Bacteria

Abstract

Introduction: When microorganisms colonize a wound, there is a continuum which extends from
contamination, to colonization and infection preventing a wound from healing. Biomaterials that reduce
bacteria within the wound microenvironment can help progress it towards healing. Objective: This
study aims to determine the in vitro bacteria reduction capabilities of a novel, commercially available
bioengineered wound product (BWP) – a synthesis of gelatin (a highly purified collagen derivative),
Manuka honey, and hydroxyapatite. Materials and methods: Using a direct contact method, the BWP
and negative control were inoculated with suspensions of gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and
gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria. After incubation for 30 minutes and 24 hours,
recovery of viable organisms was performed. Results: There was a significant reduction (99.99%) in
bacterial load recovered from the BWP at 24 hours compared to the negative control. Additionally, the
BWP caused a significant reduction in bacterial load at 24 hours compared to 30 minutes (97% and 64%
reduction for Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively). Conclusions: The
significant reduction in bacterial load in vitro suggests that the product has the potential to help manage
the pathogenic bioburden of a wound..