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Development and In Vitro Characterization of Light Responsive Zinc-Based Nanoparticles Embedded in Collagen Sheets
Nunzia Gallo1,2, Simona Bettini3, Alessia Nito1,4
1Department of Engineering for Innovation, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy.
Macromolecular Bioscience
|April 27, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a new collagen-based wound dressing containing zinc nanoparticles. This light-responsive material effectively combats bacterial infections, potentially reducing healing times and healthcare costs.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Wound Healing Research
Background:
- Bacterial infections significantly impede healing in chronic wounds.
- Advanced wound dressings are needed to promote regeneration and control bacterial growth.
- Collagen and metal-based nanoparticles (Zinc, Silver) are promising for wound care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize a novel collagen-based wound dressing with light-responsive antibacterial properties.
- To improve the efficacy of current wound dressings for hard-to-heal wounds.
Main Methods:
- Manufacturing of thin sheets using fibrillar type I collagen from horse tendon.
- Doping the collagen matrix with patented Zinc-based nanoparticles (NPs).
- In vitro characterization of chemical-physical properties and antibacterial efficacy.
Main Results:
- The developed collagen sheets exhibited favorable chemical-physical properties.
- Preliminary evaluations confirmed the antibacterial effectiveness of the dressing.
- The antibacterial activity was demonstrated to be light-responsive.
Conclusions:
- The novel collagen-Zinc NP composite shows potential as an advanced wound dressing.
- Light-responsiveness allows for controlled in situ bacterial population management.
- This innovation may reduce healing times and associated treatment costs.
