Acetobacter cellulose pellicle as a temporary skin substitute

Appl Biochem Biotechnol. 1990 Spring-Summer:24-25:253-64. doi: 10.1007/BF02920250.

Abstract

A bacterial strain with morphological and biochemical properties close to Acetobacter xylinum has been cultured in nonagitated, inverted sucrose- and yeast water-based medium for the production of thick, smooth, and floating cellulosic pellicles. The cellulose content (greater than 90%, dry weight, depending on the efficiency of water washing) and the beta-D-homopolyglucan nature of these pellicles were assessed by physical, chemical, and enzymatic methods. The apyrogenic bacterial biomass, a minor component of the dried biofilm (BioFill), is inactivated by ethylene dioxide. Once applied on exudating or bloody tissues, this biofilm displays several advantages as a biological dressing, and hence, it is valuable as a temporary skin substitute in the treatment of skin wounds, such as burns, ulcers, grafts, and as an adjuvant in dermal abrasions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acetobacter / metabolism
  • Bandages*
  • Biological Dressings*
  • Cellulose / biosynthesis
  • Cellulose / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Skin*
  • X-Ray Diffraction

Substances

  • Cellulose