Alkali-treated konjac glucomannan film as a novel wound dressing

To investigate the potential medical application of konjac glucomannan (KGM), we treated KGM film with potassium hydroxide (KOH) or calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), and evaluated its use as a wound dressing. The Ca(OH)2-treated KGM (Ca(OH)2-KGM) film exhibited more favorable properties of swelling, tensile strength, and elongation compared with the KOH-treated KGM (KOH-KGM) film, and also had a suitable water vapor transmission rate. Results from in vitro 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay further indicated the biocompatibility of the Ca(OH)2-KGM film with L929 fibroblast cells and HaCaT keratinocyte cells. The Ca(OH)2-KGM film inhibited the absorption and activation of platelets, and effectively promoted wound contractility in vivo, particularly at an early healing stage. Histological examination revealed considerably collagen secretion and advanced development of granulation tissue and epithelial coverage by Days 7 and 14 postsurgery in wounds treated with Ca(OH)2-KGM film. Our study results indicate the potential use of alkali-treated KGM film as a novel wound dressing.