st. Petersburg Polytechnic University (SPbPU) have created a graphene bioelectrode for the treatment of complex wounds using electrical stimulation. This was reported to socialbites.ca by the press service of the Priority 2030 program.
Previous studies have shown that applying current to skin cells can improve the healing of complex soft tissue injuries and chronic wounds in diabetes. This requires special conductive materials that are in direct contact with the affected area of skin and conduct electricity to it.
Scientists from SPbPU have developed a new material for bioelectrodes based on graphene and conductive polyimide. It can be used to create wearable electrical stimulation devices. The material has no industrial analogues in the world and was developed on the basis of domestic binders.
“There are now many devices that use electrical stimulation, but they have a significant drawback – the electrode in contact with the skin does not have sufficient biocompatibility, which limits the biomedical effect – wounds and scars heal for a long time. Using the material we developed solves this problem and allows tissues to heal faster.”
The scientists tested the material on skin cells and showed that it is safe and promotes their healing. The material can be sterilized at high temperatures and used repeatedly.