Silica-Based Fiber Universal Combat Matrix Reduces Inflammation, Supporting Cellular Migration and Extracellular...

Burn injuries present a significant challenge for both military personnel and civilians, accounting for 5%-20% of military casualties and contributing to substantial medical costs and poor clinical outcomes. Medical technologies used in multidomain operations against near-peer adversaries are often heavy, difficult to use, immunogenic, and are not able to support prolonged casualty care in the field. To address these limitations, SiOxMed has developed a novel silica-based fiber (SBF) universal combat matrix with hemostatic and wound repair properties. These studies assess the effects of SBF on immune modulation, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, and cellular proliferation in a porcine full thickness burn model.

Specific pathogen-free Yorkshire pigs were subjected to full-thickness burns using a modified branding iron. Twenty-four hours post-injury, wound beds were debrided before SBF matrix or standard gauze dressing treatment (n = 4 wounds per group). Scheduled bandage changes were followed by euthanasia and necropsy on day 25. Tissue biopsies were collected for histological and immunohistochemical analysis at days 4, 11, 18, and 25 to compare epithelialization, dermal collagen remodeling, and immune modulation among treatment groups.

Histological evaluation using H&E (hematoxylin and eosin) and Masson's trichrome staining revealed enhanced rete ridge formation and improved collagen remodeling in SBF-treated wounds compared to control. Immunofluorescent staining for T-cell markers (CD4, CD8) and macrophage markers (CD68) demonstrated a reduced inflammatory response in the SBF group. Ki-67 staining indicated comparable cellular proliferation between SBF-treated and control wounds.

Silica-based fiber treatment improved epidermal rete ridge formation, enhanced ECM collagen remodeling, and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration while maintaining normal cellular proliferation. These findings indicate that SBF not only minimizes inflammation compared to standard gauze treatment but also provides an optimal scaffold environment for tissue regeneration. Given its unique mechanism of action, ultralight weight, stability under ambient conditions, and user-friendly design, SBF shows strong potential for military and civilian applications, particularly in austere prehospital care and mass casualty scenarios.