The antimicrobial and skin regenerative effect of chitosan-based nanoparticles

The latest research results of Fairleigh Dickson University in Teaneck, New Jersey indicated that this antimicrobial effect might be of great significance in medicine (wound healing) and cosmetics (anti aging).

The aim of the study was to improve the antimicrobial effect of chitosan. Researchers, led by Mihaela Leonida, prepared chitosan nanoparticles (CNP) and CNP which were enhanced by copper(Cu2+) and silver(Ag+) ions through ionic gelation using sodium tripolyphosphate

Results

CNP and metal-enhanced CNP showed higher antimicrobial effects against Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Escherichia coli than conventional chitosan

Thereby the effect didn’t seem to depend on the molecular weight (MW) of the basic raw material. Cu2+ and Ag+ are both already known as antimicrobial agents. But additionally, the metal ions showed synergistic effects with chitosan against both bacterial strains.

Furthermore, CNP and metal-enhanced CNP showed skin regenerative effects. This potential was tested by assessing skin cell (fibroblast, keratinocyte) proliferation. The study also showed that the MMP-1 expression in skin cells was inhibited. MMPs are involved in the degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) as well as in its restructuring. The inhibition of the MMP-1 expression indicates a counteracting of skin aging as well as an improved wound healing in the ECM remodelling and construction phase.

Application

CNP and metal-enhanced CNP could be used as a protective wound-healing material that can avoid an opportunic infection. At same time the material can facilitate wound healing by stimulating skin cell growth. These skin regenerative properties might also be interesting for anti aging skin care applications.

Sources

Abstract: Mihaela Leonida et al., Nanocomposite materials with antimicrobial activity based on chitosan.

Article: Bio-Medicine. Nano rescues skin.