Nitric oxide-releasing albumin/chondroitin sulfate bioadhesive dressing for the treatment of MRSA-infected wounds

Nitric oxide (NO) has a short half-life, limited diffusion distance within tissues, and low stability during the manufacturing process. To overcome these limitations, we developed a NO-releasing bioadhesive dressing (Alb-CS-NO) using biocompatible albumin, chondroitin sulfate, and S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) by optimized fabrication process.

Alb-CS-NO was fabricated by cross-linking reaction of albumin and glutaraldehyde, and the freeze-drying method was selected for the drying process to minimize loss of NO. In vitro antibacterial effects of Alb-CS-NO were evaluated by CFU assay and LIVE/DEAD^® BacLight™ bacterial viability kit. In vivo wound healing and antibacterial effects were evaluated in a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-infected full-thickness wound mouse model.

When Alb-CS-NO was applied to the MRSA-infected wounds, it absorbed wound fluid and formed a bioadhesive dressing, enabling topical sustained release of NO over 3 days. These properties allow for retention of dressing in the wound, leading to enhanced antibacterial and wound healing effects in a mouse model of MRSA-infected full-thickness wounds.

Therefore, Alb-CS-NO could be a promising formulation for the treatment of infected wounds.