Scientists Have Found A Way To Regenerate Skin and Heal Wounds Rapidly

Scientists say that a byproduct from single-celled green algae known as Euglena gracilis can actually heal skin and wounds.

By Charlene Badasie | Updated

heal wounds

Skin regeneration is a long, complex process that involves various cells, tissue, and signaling pathways. But now, scientists have discovered that a byproduct of freshwater single-celled green algae known as Euglena gracilis may heal wounds much faster. The health and wellness research was published in the Journal of Advanced Materials Interfaces and available via the Wiley Online Library.

According to the paper published by Yuri Ko, Hwira Baek, Jee-Hyun Hwang, Youngseok Kim, Kyung-Min Lim, Junoh Kim, and Jin Woong Kim, the system used microvesicles that originate from the surface of Euglena gracilis cells. These tiny vesicles contain B-glucan, a carbohydrate that can regulate the immune system, promote regeneration, heal wounds, and exhibit antioxidant properties.

Laboratory experiments revealed that these microvesicles also promoted skin cell proliferation and migration, increased collagen synthesis, and boosted the expression of proliferation-associated proteins. An additional test created to heal wounds generated promising results, SciTech Daily said about the groundbreaking findings.

Speaking about the research, the study’s authors said the technique could be applied to other cells. This will enable the design of new types of extracellular vesicles that can be used to heal wounds, in various skin treatments, and for care in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Over the years, several medications have been developed to improve skin regeneration outcomes.

However, a major complication related to chronic wounds is exudation which is a marker of the chronic state of an injury and a sign of treatment effectiveness. According to a paper examining the process needed to heal wounds, there is significant evidence that exudate composition can predict regenerative outcomes.

Maintaining healthy skin and preventing infection depends on effective methods to heal wounds. Without assistance from Euglena gracilis, damaged skin is repaired as the body activates a series of mechanisms to heal the affected area. The process can take a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the injury.

However, people can do a few things to heal wounds faster. Proper care is also essential for promoting faster healing. The process would entail cleaning the area with mild soap and water and applying an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. Cover the skin with a sterile bandage or dressing to keep it protected.

Several topical treatments can heal wounds quickly. Natural remedies like aloe vera gel can help to soothe and moisturize, while honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Additionally, vitamin E oil improves skin elasticity and promotes healing.

Feeding your body the required nutrients and vitamins found in a balanced diet helps to heal wounds along with proper hydration. Drinking eight glasses of water daily will flush out toxins and improve circulation, aiding the healing process. Getting enough sleep is also crucial for skin regeneration as the body produces proteins that help to fight infection, inflammation, and stress during sleep.