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Updated: Jan 27, 2026

Development of a Benchtop Model for Evaluating the Compatibility of Wound Dressing Materials with Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Systems
Published on: May 2, 2025
In vitro cellular viability studies on a concentrated surfactant-based wound dressing
Rui Chen1, Anne-Marie Salisbury1, Steven L Percival1
1Centre of Excellence for Biofilm Science (CEBS), 5D Health Protection Group Ltd., Liverpool Bio-Innovation Hub, Liverpool, UK.
A novel antimicrobial gel promotes wound healing by enhancing cell migration and stabilizing cell membranes, proving non-toxic to fibroblasts. In contrast, silver sulfadiazine gel exhibited cytotoxicity.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cell Biology
- Wound Healing Research
Background:
- Evaluating the biocompatibility and efficacy of topical wound care agents is crucial.
- Surfactant gels are increasingly explored for wound management.
- Assessing cytotoxicity and pro-healing properties of novel formulations is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the biocompatibility and wound healing potential of two concentrated surfactant gels.
- To investigate the cytotoxic effects on L929 and human dermal fibroblasts (HDFa).
- To evaluate the impact on cell migration, wound closure, and membrane integrity.
Main Methods:
- Cytotoxicity was assessed using direct contact, extraction, and cell insert assays.
- An in vitro wound model was used to evaluate cell migration and closure.
- A needle-scratched membrane disruption model assessed membrane stabilization and resealing.
Main Results:
- The antimicrobial-preserved surfactant gel showed no toxicity to L929 and HDFa cells.
- The silver sulfadiazine gel exhibited cytotoxicity towards both cell types.
- The antimicrobial gel enhanced cell migration, accelerated wound closure, reduced necrosis, and improved membrane integrity.
Conclusions:
- The concentrated surfactant gel preserved with antimicrobials is non-cytotoxic and accelerates wound healing.
- This gel enhances cell mobility, stabilizes plasma membranes, and promotes wound closure.
- It offers a promising alternative for wound management compared to silver sulfadiazine formulations.
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