A study from the Chalmers Institute of Technology (CTH) and the University of Freiburg has shown that electricity can significantly speed up the healing of chronic wounds, potentially changing the lives of millions.
By exposing skin cells to a controlled electric field, researchers found they could accelerate the healing process up to three times faster than traditional methods.
This innovation is especially impactful for individuals with diabetes, cancer, or other conditions that impair the body's natural healing ability, where chronic wounds often lead to severe complications like infections and even amputations.
The study's lead author, Maria Asplund, highlights the societal importance of addressing these persistent health challenges through bioelectronic advancements.
The technique builds on the understanding that human skin is electrostatic and its cells respond to electric currents. In experiments, researchers observed that skin cells under an electric field migrate more efficiently toward damaged areas, facilitating faster repair.
The absence of adverse side effects further underscores the potential of this method for clinical use. Tested on diabetes models, the approach demonstrated promising results, aligning diabetic skin cells' healing speed closer to that of healthy cells.
Learn more: https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/986115