| Popis: |
Due to the notable biocompatibility and biodegradability of naturally derived polymers, the development of wound dressing materials based on these molecules has attracted considerable interest. They represent a versatile and tunable platform for improving skin healing, since the combination of their bioactive properties and the technological advances in materials science provide solutions for wound care demands. In this chapter the main characteristics of skin lesions, along with requirements of wound dressings fulfilled by using biopolymers as raw materials, and their role on the wound healing process are discussed. Methods for the production of biopolymer-based wound healing films and membranes and strategies to incorporate bioactive agents to improve their performance are presented. Among other polysaccharides and proteins, the particular use of chitosan, alginates, cellulose, hyaluronan, collagen, and gelatin for this purpose is analyzed, as well as their blends and composites. Finally, current trends are identified, and directions on future developments are provided. |
