Electroceutical Management of Bacterial Biofilms and Surgical Infection

Abstract

In the host-microbe microenvironment, bioelectrical factors influence microbial, host as well as host-microbe interactions. This article discusses relevant mechanistic underpinnings of this novel paradigm. It also addresses how such knowledge may be leveraged to develop novel electroceutical solutions to manage biofilms in the context of surgical infection.Recent Advances: Systematic review and meta-analysis of several hundred wound studies reported a 78.2% prevalence of biofilms in chronic wounds. Biofilm infection is a major cause of delayed wound healing. In the host-microbe microenvironment, bioelectrical factors influence interactions between microbes and host.Critical Issues: Rapid biological responses are driven by electrical signals generated by ion currents moving across cell membranes. Bacterial life, growth and function relies on a bioelectrical milieu which when perturbed impairs their ability to form biofilm, a major threat to healthcare. Viral stability depends on electrostatic forces. Weak electrical field strength, otherwise safe for humans, can achieve such benefit. In the host, electric field enhanced keratinocyte migration, bolstered immune defenses, improved mitochondrial function and demonstrated multiple other effects consistent with supporting wound healing. Deeper mechanistic understanding of electrical principles will inform the design of next generation electroceuticals.Future Directions: This is an opportune moment in time as there is a surge of interest in electroceuticals in medicine. Projected to reach $35.5 billion by 2025, electroceuticals are becoming a cynosure in the global market. WHO reports that more than 50% of surgical site infections can be antibiotic resistant. Electroceuticals offer a serious alternative.

Human Wound and Its Burden: Updated 2020 Compendium of Estimates

“…A key focus in biofilm research is the development of suitable prevention and treatment options that would clear infection. Some newer forays into this avenue include nanotheranostics (using nanoparticles and fibers as a combination diagnostic and therapeutic tool against drugresistant and biofilm-forming bacteria), 94 bacteriophages, [95][96][97] and electroceuticals [98][99][100] as some nonconventional approaches to targeting wound biofilm infections. Biofilm infections have been linked to wound chronicity.…”

Hydro Electroactive Janus Micro/Nano Fiber Dressing with Exudate Management Ability for Wound Healing

“…In addition to promoting cell migration, the hydro‐activated microcell batteries can promote wound healing by providing excellent antimicrobial efficacy. [ 47,48 ] Therefore, the antibacterial properties of TPU/Cotton, Ag@TPU/Cotton, Zn@TPU/Cotton, and Ag/Zn@TPU/Cotton against E. coli and S. aureus were tested using the agar diffusion method. The TPU/Cotton showed no antibacterial activity against E. coli or S. aureus (Figure S2a, Supporting Information).…”

Hydrogel Loaded with Peptide-Containing Nanocomplexes: Symphonic Cooperation of Photothermal Antimicrobial Nanoparticles and Prohealing Peptides for the Treatment of Infected Wounds

“…Bacterial infection constitutes one of the most prevalent complications following deep skin trauma with an incidence rate of 16.5%. , Wounded tissues are inherently susceptible to bacterial colonization and subsequent infection, which inhibit tissue regeneration and delay wound healing. In recent years, the emergence of highly drug-resistant bacterial strains has compromised the efficacy of antibiotic therapies, thereby posing a serious threat to public health and socioeconomic stability. , The management of chronic skin infections remains a challenge, , leading to an increase in research dedicated to exploring safe and effective methods to reduce bacterial infection, accelerate tissue regeneration, and promote wound healing. − …”