In a groundbreaking development poised to revolutionize wound care, researchers have successfully formulated and evaluated 3D-printed dressings loaded with curcumin and levofloxacin, offering a promising solution for advanced wound healing applications. This innovative study, led by Brilivia Joan Wongso from the Department of Pharmacy at the Indonesia International Institute of Life Sciences in Jakarta, opens new avenues for the construction industry, particularly in occupational health and safety.
The research, published in *Materials Today Advances* (which translates to *Advances in Materials Today*), focuses on the integration of curcumin (CUR), a traditional wound healing agent, with levofloxacin (LEVO), a broad-spectrum antibiotic effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The combination was incorporated into wound dressings using a semi-solid extrusion (SSE) 3D printing technique, which minimizes potential drug interactions and eliminates the need for organic solvents.
Two different polymers, ethyl cellulose (ethocel) and corn protein (zein), were employed as matrix materials and comparatively evaluated. The study found that ethocel-based wound dressings demonstrated lower elasticity but higher fracture resistance due to superior tensile strength. “The ethocel-based dressings showed remarkable mechanical properties, making them ideal for applications requiring durability and strength,” Wongso explained.
In vitro release studies revealed that the type of polymer did not significantly affect the release profiles of CUR or LEVO. Antimicrobial assays confirmed the antibacterial effectiveness of CUR, LEVO, and their combination against Staphylococcus aureus, with bacterial counts of less than 1 CFU/mL in all treated groups except the blank. The ethocel-CUR-LEVO group showed the most favorable wound healing response, characterized by increased epithelialization, enhanced fibroblast migration, and reduced neovascularization.
This research has significant implications for the construction industry, where workplace injuries and chronic wounds are common. The development of advanced wound dressings that promote faster healing and prevent infections can lead to reduced downtime and improved worker safety. “The potential for these dressings to enhance wound care in high-risk environments is immense,” Wongso noted.
The study’s findings suggest that the CUR-LEVO-loaded ethocel-based dressing is a promising candidate for advanced wound care applications. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the integration of such innovative technologies could shape future developments in occupational health and safety, ultimately leading to a safer and more efficient workforce.