Microbial cellulose—the natural power to heal wounds

• Published in: Biomaterials Vol. 27; no. 2; pp. 145 - 151
• Main Authors: Czaja, Wojciech, Krystynowicz, Alina, Bielecki, Stanislaw, Brown, R. Malcolm
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier Ltd 2006
• Subjects: Acetobacter; Acetobacter xylinum; Bandages, Hydrocolloid; Biocompatible Materials - chemistry; Biocompatible Materials - therapeutic use; Biological Dressings; Cellulose - ultrastructure; Gluconacetobacter xylinus - chemistry; Humans; Microbial cellulose; Skin, Artificial; Wound dressing; Wound Healing; Wound dressing; Wound healing; Microbial cellulose; Acetobacter
• ISSN: 0142-9612; 1878-5905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2005.07.035

Microbial cellulose (MC) synthesized in abundance by
Acetobacter xylinum shows vast potential as a novel wound healing system. The high mechanical strength and remarkable physical properties result from the unique nanostructure of the never-dried membrane. This article attempts to briefly summarize the recent developments and applications of MC in the emerging field of novel wound dressings and skin substitutes. It considers the properties of the synthesized material, its clinical performance, as well as progress in the commercialization of MC for wound care products. Efficient and inexpensive fermentation techniques, not presently available, will be necessary to produce large quantities of the polymer.