Biological glue from snails for wound healing

Scientists from the Kunming Institute of Botany of the Chinese Academy of Sciences have discovered a natural biological adhesive in snails that can be used to heal wounds.

Nature Communications reports that researchers have found that the natural biomaterial (d-SMG) found in snails is composed of 30–50 percent protein and 10–16 percent chondroitin sulfate (GAG). Extracellular matrix (ECM), which is composed of fibrous proteins and polysaccharides and provides mechanical support for cell growth and regulation of their behavior.

d-SMG tests showed more effective adhesion to wet tissues than clinical fibrin glue. Natural protein gel provides a microenvironment and tissue hydration, which reduces inflammation and promotes tissue regeneration. When tested in laboratory mice, the wounds of normal and diabetic mice healed, in addition to improving blood vessel formation, granulation tissue, collagen accumulation, and skin regeneration at the wound site.

According to scientists, the results of the study provide a material and theoretical basis for the creation of bioactive dressings and biological scaffolds for wound healing.

Source: Linta. EN