Nanofiber Wound Dressings with Oak Extract: Iranian Nanofiber Wound Dressings with Oak Extract
A groundbreaking research project by Professor Soheila Kashanian at Razi University of Kermanshah is set to transform the way wounds are treated. The “Production of Iranian nanofiber wound dressings with oak extract” project aims to reduce irreversible complications in patients and significantly increase the quality of wound healing.
The Challenges of Conventional Wound Treatment
Every day, many people visit hospitals due to wounds and burns. Traditional treatment methods often involve sterile gauze, washing with normal saline, and taking antibiotics topically, orally, and by injection. However, in some cases, this treatment method does not lead to complete healing of the wound. Antibiotic resistance causes the formation of biofilm and increased infection at the wound site, leading to dangerous complications such as amputation and even death. Moreover, the wound site does not return to its original and natural form, and the wound site remains permanently on the person’s skin in the form of a scar.
The Ideal Wound Dressing
A suitable wound dressing can serve as a physical shield to protect the wound from contamination, bacteria, environmental factors, and external forces. According to Dr. Kashanian, “The ideal wound dressing has characteristics such as the ability to absorb wound secretions, the ability to pass water vapor and oxygen, non-toxicity, biocompatibility, desirable mechanical properties, and antibacterial properties.”
Harnessing the Power of Oak Extract
Researchers obtain oak sap extract from forest oak trees in Kermanshah province. Traditional medicine sources highlight oak’s medicinal properties, including wound healing. Specifically, the sap contains antioxidants, tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and aromatic compounds. These compounds activate epidermal growth factors, reduce inflammation, and increase TGF-β, ultimately accelerating wound healing. Moreover, a 2020 study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Oak Extract exhibited significant antibacterial activity against several bacterial strains. Furthermore, the researchers utilize this natural remedy to create innovative wound care products, such as plant-based dressings.
Nanotechnology: The Game-Changer
With the help of nanotechnology, the production of nanofibers containing antibacterial materials based on medicinal plant extracts has made it possible to largely solve this problem. Nanofibers have unique properties, such as high surface area and porosity, which enable them to absorb wound secretions and provide a conducive environment for wound healing.
Commercializing a Knowledge-Based Product
This project aims to commercialize a groundbreaking Nanofiber Wound Dressings product, distributing it to hospitals and medical centers nationwide. By doing so, hospitalization time for injury and burn patients will be significantly reduced. Moreover, the innovative dressings will minimize irreversible complications, leading to improved wound healing quality. Furthermore, the project will tap into Iran’s rich natural resources, including the medicinal benefits of Oak Extract. Additionally, it will highlight the country’s effective medicinal plants, showcasing their potential.
Looking to the Future
The world rapidly moves towards nanofibers in therapeutic applications, driven by pioneering research projects. These initiatives pave the way for a new era in wound healing. By harnessing medicinal plant extracts’ antibacterial properties and nanotechnology, researchers create effective, fast, and safe wound treatments. Meanwhile, the global wound care market is expected to reach $22.3 billion by 2026, driven by growing demand. In response, the “Production of Iranian Nanofiber Wound Dressings with Oak Extract” project innovatively addresses pressing healthcare challenges. Furthermore, this breakthrough combines traditional medicine with cutting-edge technology, revolutionizing wound treatment and improving millions of lives worldwide.
Source: IRNA