Encapsulation of pyruvate dehydrogenase in alginate hydrogel sheets to create biofilm-eliminating wound dressing

Biofilm infections in chronic wounds pose significant challenges due to their tolerance to antimicrobial treatments. Leveraging the role of pyruvate in biofilm metabolism, we developed a hydrogel-based wound dressing by entrapping pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) in alginate hydrogels. These hydrogels were studied using scanning electron microscopy, swelling studies, and rheometry, demonstrating desirable physio-mechanical and structural properties essential for the encapsulation of PDH and absorption of wound exudate. Results indicate that PDH-loaded hydrogels effectively deplete pyruvate and eliminate Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. Future studies aim to compare our product to commercial wound dressings and assess their effect on human dermal cells in vitro.