By Sean Henahan, Access Excellence

AKRON, OH-- New bioengineered bandages go beyond the barrier role played by Band-Aids to provide immune stimulation and quicker healing, report researchers from the University of Akron.

The Genetically Engineered Biological Bandage, or GEBB, is a portable tissue-culture system, a "living bandage," which consists of a polymer membrane in the shape of a bag or envelope that will be placed on a wound. Inside the bag are normal human skin cells like those currently used in the treatment of burns and other chronic wounds. Using recombinant DNA techniques, genetic engineers can obtain segments of DNA which are inserted into the skin cells, causing them to release special proteins -- human growth factors.

These growth factors pass through the polymer membrane (designed to be porous only to them) and into the wound, facilitating the healing process. The ability of growth factors to participate in the wound repair process has been known for some time, but it has been difficult to keep them viable long enough for practical application to wounds. The GEBB overcomes that dilemma, because it provides a complete, living environment for the production of human growth factors. The dressing lasts three to five days and releases growth factors at a constant rate.

"These are third-generation wound dressings that work by stimulating the body's immune system to trigger a faster response toward repair. Patients benefit because it translates into shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times after surgery," notes developer Daniel Smith, professor of chemistry and biomedical engineering at the University of Akron.

"Essentially we've developed an excellent delivery system for biological agents, "Smith explains. He envisions alternate versions of the bandage used to treat acute acne or psoriasis. And because the bandage is "clean," it significantly increases the safety factor of handling biological elements.

The discovery could benefit as many as three million Americans per year who suffer from wounds that under normal treatment don't repair very well, such as severe burns, diabetic ulcers, or bedsores.