Stabilization and Controlled Release of Microencasulated Hydrogen Peroxide for Wound Treatment Applications.

AIMS: Hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ) disinfection applications are limited by its rapid inactivation. The aims of this study were to 1) microencapsulate H2 O2 in silica hydrogels to obtain controlled release up to 72 hours, 2) test hydrogel antimicrobial activity against four common pathogens, and 3) assess H2 O2 release kinetics and antimicrobial activity in 35 - 65% relative humidity and 37°C to approximate bandaged wound conditions.

METHODS AND RESULTS: Hydrogels were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, nitrogen sorption porosimetry, Brunauer Emmet Teller analysis, and the Barret - Joyner - Halenda method. Hydrogels formed at lower pH demonstrated increased surface area and decreased pore size, resulting in H2 O2 release lasting 72 hours. Using agar well diffusion for antimicrobial activity, statistically significant zones of inhibition (as compared to controls) were seen for Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomona aeruginiosa, and Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis. Activity remained for hydrogels aged for 72 hours in humid, 37°C conditions.

CONCLUSIONS: Hydrogels can be synthesized to provide a continuous, controlled release of H2 O2 for up to 72 hours.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: Stable, controlled-release H2 O2 hydrogels have potential applications for wound treatment and disinfection of medical equipment, through bonding to bandages or materials such as catheter lumens. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.