Monolayer graphene-on-polymer dressings promote healing and stabilize skin temperature on acute and chronic wound models

Abstract

ABSTRACTMonolayer graphene presented on the wound bed is assessed for its healing properties using both in vitro and in vivo models. For in vivo study, a cutaneous excisional wound is created on the dorsal surface of healthy and type-1 diabetic mice to mimic acute and delayed wound healing, respectively. A pig model is also chosen for its resemblance to human skin. Photographic and histological assessment of the wound are coupled with thermographic data recorded with an infrared camera. Graphene monolayer accelerates early phases of wound healing in vivo in every tested model. Upon removal of the bandage, wounds coated with graphene are less prone to temperature drop compared to the control samples. We hypothesize that graphene may directly shorten the inflammatory phase and/or enhance angiogenesis and cell migration in proliferative phase as demonstrated in vitro. Thermographic assessment of wounds could be of particular interest to follow both phenomena in an objective, rapid and non-invasive manner.