Prayagraj: Scientists at the Indian Institute of Information Technology-Allahabad (IIIT-A), in collaboration with Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology (MNNIT), have developed a biocomposite wound dressing containing silver nanoparticles that could help protect patients with severe burns, deep wounds and extensive skin damage from infections.The innovation has been granted a patent by the Indian Patent Office.The study was led by Prof Nidhi Mishra and Prof Amit Prabhakar from IIIT-A’s department of applied sciences along with research scholars Shagun Varshney and Amar Dhwaj. Manoj Kumar Gupta, associate professor in MNNIT’s department of mechanical engineering was also part of the team.“The biocomposite was developed by combining silver nanoparticles produced through a green synthesis method with polycaprolactone (PCL) and nanocellulose. It can be used as a protective layer over wounds, providing an additional barrier against external contaminants and infection-causing microorganisms,” said Prof Mishra.Researchers said the silver nanoparticles possess antimicrobial properties that help inhibit bacterial growth at the wound site. This is particularly significant for burn patients, whose damaged skin loses its natural protective function and becomes highly susceptible to infection.According to the team, the dressing protects damaged skin from dust, dirt and harmful microorganisms. While the silver nanoparticles suppress bacterial growth, the nanocellulose- and PCL-based structure helps create a protective environment around the wound.The researchers added that the material could support the body’s natural healing process by maintaining favourable conditions at the injury site.Unlike conventional wound coverings that primarily serve as physical barriers, the newly developed biocomposite combines both protective and antimicrobial functions.The patent marks an important step towards further development of the technology for potential healthcare applications. Researchers believe it could be particularly useful in treating wounds with a high risk of infection due to extensive tissue or skin damage.
