Nanotechnology applications in wound healing

Reconstructing functional skin after a wound remains a challenge due to the complexity of healing. In recent years nanotechnology has been provided a new horizons promise in diagnosis and treatment of difficult diseases. In the field of wound dressings, nanodimensional materials have special roles to play in several different areas. A number of engineered nanotechnologies have been proposed demonstrating unique properties and multiple functions that address specific problems associated with wound repair mechanisms. The high surface area to mass ratio characteristic of nanomaterials enables much better interaction with critical constituents in the wound milieu. Host cells naturally interact with extra cellular matrix which can be better mimicked by nanoscale materials. Synthetic nanofibrous structures, fabricated by nanotechnology methods from wide range of biopolymers, mimics natural matrix of skin and have many characteristics that make them ideal candidates for wound healing applications. They possess permeability to oxygen, formability, nsecurity to germs and so on. On the other hand, biocompatible nanoparticles carrying and releasing bioactive agents in a controlled and sustained manner may significantly improve the efficacy of wound therapies compared with current treatments. Topical administration of drug-loaded nanoparticles allows optimal delivery to the dermis and improves product efficacy. Furthermore, associating NPs with scaffolds represents a new concept of dressing.