Photoactive Hydrogel-Based Therapy for Disrupting Biofilms in Chronic Wound Infections

Author : Wanessa Melo

Abstract :This study introduces a novel photoactive hydrogel (HG1MB1) incorporating methylene blue (MB) as a photosensitizer for the treatment of chronic biofilm-related infections. The innovation lies in the gel-like formulation of HG1MB1, which enhances MB penetration into biofilms, enabling deeper and more effective disruption of the biofilm matrix. By improving interaction with the biofilm’s extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), HG1MB1 facilitates EPS reduction and structural degradation of the biofilm. Upon light activation, the hydrogel generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), significantly boosting its antimicrobial activity. HG1MB1 exhibited broad-spectrum efficacy against both bacterial and fungal biofilms, including Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Importantly, it demonstrated low cytotoxicity toward fibroblast cells, making it a safer and more targeted alternative to conventional antimicrobial treatments. These findings underscore the potential of HG1MB1 to overcome biofilm-associated resistance mechanisms and improve outcomes in chronic wound management

Keywords :Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, methylene blue, photoactive hydrogel

Conference Name :International Conference on Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Equipment (ICBEIE-25)

Conference Place Poznan, Poland

Conference Date 24th May 2025