Biofilm Infection Management via Encapsulation of Pyruvate Dehydrogenase in Alginate Hydrogel Wound Dressing
Conference Year
2024
Abstract
Biofilm infections present formidable challenges in wound management due to their antimicrobial tolerance. This study introduces a novel hydrogel wound dressing targeting pyruvate, a key metabolite in biofilm formation and maintenance, through entrapment of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH). Hydrogel sheets with varied sodium alginate concentrations were synthesized with calcium chloride as a crosslinker. Through analysis of mechanical properties, swell testing, morphology, porosity, and enzymatic activity, the study characterizes the hydrogels and demonstrates effective PDH encapsulation within the sheets. Results indicate potential for biofilm management through pyruvate depletion. Future research will optimize PDH loading and assess the dressing's efficacy in biofilm studies.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Matthias Brewer
Graduate Student Mentors
Omid Sedighi
Status
Undergraduate
Student College
College of Arts and Sciences
Second Student College
College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences
Program/Major
Biochemistry
Primary Research Category
Engineering and Math Science
Biofilm Infection Management via Encapsulation of Pyruvate Dehydrogenase in Alginate Hydrogel Wound Dressing
Biofilm infections present formidable challenges in wound management due to their antimicrobial tolerance. This study introduces a novel hydrogel wound dressing targeting pyruvate, a key metabolite in biofilm formation and maintenance, through entrapment of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH). Hydrogel sheets with varied sodium alginate concentrations were synthesized with calcium chloride as a crosslinker. Through analysis of mechanical properties, swell testing, morphology, porosity, and enzymatic activity, the study characterizes the hydrogels and demonstrates effective PDH encapsulation within the sheets. Results indicate potential for biofilm management through pyruvate depletion. Future research will optimize PDH loading and assess the dressing's efficacy in biofilm studies.