The Use of Metallic Nanoparticles in Wound Healing: New Perspectives

Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Dec 6;23(23):15376. doi: 10.3390/ijms232315376.

Abstract

Chronic wounds represent a challenge for the health area, as they directly impact patients' quality of life and represent a threat to public health and the global economy due to their high cost of treatment. Alternative strategies must be developed for cost-effective and targeted treatment. In this scenario, the emerging field of nanobiotechnology may provide an alternative platform to develop new therapeutic agents for the chronic wound healing process. This manuscript aims to demonstrate that the application of metallic nanoparticles (gold, silver, copper, and zinc oxide) opened a new chapter in the treatment of wounds, as they have different properties such as drug delivery, antimicrobial activity, and healing acceleration. Furthermore, metallic nanoparticles (NPs) produced through green synthesis ensure less toxicity in biological tissues, and greater safety of applicability, other than adding the effects of NPs with those of extracts.

Keywords: drug delivery; green synthesis; metallic nanoparticles; nanocomposites; scaffolds; wound healing.

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Green Chemistry Technology
  • Humans
  • Metal Nanoparticles* / therapeutic use
  • Nanoparticles*
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology
  • Quality of Life
  • Silver / pharmacology
  • Silver / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Plant Extracts
  • Silver
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents