A groundbreaking device named BLAST has been designed to “zap” harmful bacteria with electricity, protecting human skin from infections.
In the latest advancement, a machine that utilizes electricity to shield human skin from infection by targeting harmful bacteria.
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This device is called Bioelectronic Localized Antimicrobial Stimulation Therapy (BLAST).
It is an adhesive patch that can be placed anywhere on the skin surface, and through electrodes in the patch, it applies a minuscule, harmless electric current to immobilize pathogenic bacteria.
How Was the Study Conducted?
Researchers studied the working and its usefulness of BLAST, and used pig skin, which closely is somewhat similar to human skin physiologically, according to livescience.com.
The researchers showed that Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria on this skin, which are usually found on healthy skin. It further prevents the accumulation of harmful bacteria.
However, if S. epidermidis bacteria enter the human body—perhaps through a catheter or IV—they can cause serious infections. In their experiments, the authors noted a phenomenon called “selective excitability,” where the bacteria slow down the genes responsible for forming biofilms, which help them adhere to body surfaces.
S. epidermidis responds to electricity only in acidic environments. While healthy skin is mildly acidic, chronic wounds are often alkaline. To address this, the researchers ensured that BLAST creates an acidic environment under the patch by incorporating a special hydrogel.
More About BLAST
Experts indicated that BLAST shows a similar antimicrobial effect when applied to catheter surfaces, suggesting its potential as an additional sterilization method.
The study’s findings were published in the journal Device, hinting at the patch’s usefulness in medical contexts. However, further studies are necessary to validate its effects on living animals and humans.