In this work, we present the use of a pseudo-zwitterionic polymeric structure, made of positive – 2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl] trimethylammonium (TMA) – and negative – 3-sulfopropyl methacrylate (SA) – subunits for the development of wound healing materials. TMA and SA were copolymerized on expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) membranes. The charge bias (final SA/TMA ratio in the brushes) was efficiently controlled through the plasma-induced polymerization process. We then move onto the evaluation of essential properties that ideal wound dressing should have. We demonstrate that these novel materials (i) possess excellent hydration properties, (ii) resist the adhesion of proteins and bacteria (and so prevent potential bacterial infection of the wound), (iii) present excellent hemocompatibility (no erythrocyte, leukocyte nor thrombocyte adhesion), and (iv) do not adhere to fibroblasts (therefore preventing further damaging the wounded area upon removal of the bandage). Overall, pseudo-zwitterionic membranes (no bias) present the best properties, compared with virgin membrane or membranes modified with poly(SA-<i>co</i>-TMA) structure presenting a positive or a negative bias. Finally, we apply membranes as wound dressings. Wound treated with pseudo-zwitterionic membrane exhibit complete recovery after 14 days, that is, total re-epithelialization and re-construction of connective tissues. Also, healing is faster than when using commercial bandage. Therefore, if the charge-bias of mixed-charge structures is well controlled, ideal material for wound dressings can be prepared. These materials are believed to be an ideal substitute to PEG-based and zwitterionic-based wound dressings, which lack of stability, and therefore constitute the new generation of wound healing materials

Mixed-charge copolymers for complete and fast wound healing

249th National Meeting (2015)

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