Chinese scientists from Donghua University in Shanghai discovered that the use of electric thread accelerated the healing process of post-operative stitches in rats. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Nature Communications (NatComms).
Previous experiments have shown that low-level electrical current promotes tissue regeneration. However, this requires the surgical suture to be connected to an external power source.
In the new study, the team developed threads made of biodegradable polymers and magnesium that are absorbed by the body without harm. As the muscles and other tissues around the surgical site move, the middle layer of the suture rubs against the outer covering and transfers electrons. The resulting electricity encourages the incision to tighten.
Laboratory experiments revealed that magnesium filaments can produce 2.3 volts during normal activity.
It was observed that the method, when used with living tissue, accelerated healing by 50% compared to non-electric sutures. Additionally, the electric current reduced the level of bacteria at the incision site, even without the use of disinfectant.
In the future, scientists plan to test their development on larger animals and then try it on humans.
Previous researchers opened a key molecule responsible for healing skin wounds.
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Source: Gazeta
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