Project

Electrospun scaffolds meet non-thermal plasma: a comprehensive approach for skin regeneration and infection control in chronic wound healing

Code
G0AG525N
Duration
01 January 2025 → 31 December 2028
Funding
Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO)
Promotor-spokesperson
Research disciplines
  • Natural sciences
    • Chemistry of plasmas
  • Engineering and technology
    • Biomaterials
    • Functionalisation of materials
    • Tissue engineering
Keywords
Plasma-treated liquids Plasma polymerization Skin tissue engineering
 
Project description

Chronic wounds affect millions worldwide, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare systems, requiring more effective and painless treatments. Conventional therapies often fall short due to issues as slow healing, infection risks, and high costs. This project aims to confront these obstacles by merging plasma technology with electrospun scaffolds for wound care. Our aim is to develop scaffolds enhanced with plasma-polymerized coatings and biomolecules for superior skin regeneration, alongside utilizing atmospheric pressure plasma technology to generate plasma-activated liquids (PALs) containing targeted reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) for potent antimicrobial action. Organized into 4 work packages, the project initiates with WP1, focused on fabricating biocompatible scaffolds designed for optimal cellular interactions. WP2 aims to refine these scaffold surfaces through aerosol-assisted plasma polymerization, incorporating bioactive molecules to enhance cellular response. WP3 focuses on generating selective RONS in PALs using a novel plasma device, aiming for precise antimicrobial efficacy without impeding tissue repair. Finally, WP4 intends to assess the combined impact of functionalized scaffolds and PALs in wound models, emphasizing their synergetic healing and anti-biofilm properties. This integrative strategy, by harmonizing bio-functionalized scaffolds with antimicrobial PALs, offers a holistic approach for swift, infection-free healing.