Biocompatible Nanomaterials for Burns

Abstract

The skin being the largest organ, protects our body against harmful chemicals, pathogens, and physical agents. It constitutes primarily three layers: epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layers. Injuries occurring due to burning remain localized to the skin or other organic tissues caused by flame, extreme heat, and close contact with chemicals or heated objects. Conventional treatments are available for the treatment of burns; however, they are expensive and might completely replace autologous tissue transfer. Nanotechnology-based approaches include organic nanoparticles, dendrimers, hydrogels, etc. Biocompatibility usually refers to the ability of biomaterials to perform their respective functions centered on medical therapy without causing any systemic or local effects. Polymeric materials like a natural (chitosan and hyaluronic acid) and synthetic (polylactic acid and polycaprolactone) materials are employed as biomaterials. Various preclinical and clinical studies were performed in animal models. In this review, the authors have discussed elaborately the biocompatible polymers, which are used in the treatment of burn wounds. Afterwards, a brief discussion on the polymers, pre-clinical and clinical studies, and regulatory concerns related to nanomaterials have also been covered.

Keywords: Nanotechnology; biocompatible; burns; nanomaterial; topical delivery; wound healing.