How bandages made from fish scales heal wounds
Introduction
About ten years ago I visited Radboud University in Nijmegen, where I was given a tour by Prof. Dr. Gert Flik. During this tour, I came across fascinating research on the regenerative properties of fish scales and whether these properties could be applicable for medical purposes. It is extraordinary to see how this research has now, after a decade, led to the development of the fish scale bandage.
How does the fish scale bandage work?
The fish skin patch works by mimicking the structure of fish scales. These scales have a special structure that helps retain moisture and allow oxygen to pass through. These are crucial properties for wound healing. When the bandage is applied to a wound, it allows the wound to stay moist and breathe properly, speeding up healing.
Advantages over normal bandages
- Faster healing: Because bandages made of fish skin mimic the natural healing environment, wounds can heal faster. This is because the bandage helps form new skin cells and keeps the wound well clean and moist.
- Fewer infections: The bandage allows oxygen to pass through, which helps prevent infections. At the same time, it keeps harmful bacteria out.
- Wider use: This fish skin bandage can be used for different types of wounds, from small cuts to large surgical wounds, and is suitable for both humans and animals.
The role of Radboud University Nijmegen
Radboud University in Nijmegen has played a crucial role in researching this new technology. Although it was already used seven years ago in Brazil as the first if I’m not mistaken, of course extensive testing etc has to be done to get approval so that it can really be widely used in the medical industry. In Nijmegen, they have conducted extensive tests and studies to see if the bandage is safe and works properly.
Do fish have to be killed for it?
A common question is whether fish must be killed to get the scales. In most cases, the scales come from fish such as tilapia, which are already caught for food. Thus, the scales become a useful byproduct and no additional fish need be killed. For other fish species, such as carp, this technique is less commonly used. Therefore, the Koi is not a consumer fish.
How does this work with tilapia and carp?
Tilapia and carp both have the ability to rapidly regenerate their scales. This regenerative process was a major motivation for researching the application of fish scales in wound care. When damaged, these fish can recover their scales within weeks, demonstrating how effective and fast their natural repair mechanisms are. This property has been translated into the fish scale bandage, which helps the skin heal wounds quickly.
Can the fish scale bandage be used for burns?
Yes, the fish scale bandage can also be used for burns. With its moisture-regulating and breathable properties, the bandage helps burns heal without the risk of dehydration or infection.
Won’t it smell gigantic?
An understandable concern is whether the fish scale bandage will not stink. Fortunately, this is not the case. The scales are treated and processed in a special way that makes them odorless. The final product is odorless and safe for use on the skin.
Is the fish scale bandage fragile?
Although the bandage is thin and flexible, it is surprisingly strong and stays put. The natural structure of fish scales provides sufficient strength and elasticity, so it does not loosen easily.
Can the fish scale bandage be used for wounds on carp and other animals?
The fish scale bandage can be used not only for human wounds, but also for animals. Veterinarians can use this bandage to treat wounds in various animals, including fish such as carp. The regenerative properties of fish scales can help in the rapid healing of wounds in animals, just like in humans.
Where can you find the fish scale bandage and are hospitals in the Netherlands using it soon?
The fish scale bandage, mainly developed by companies such as Kerecis, has already been approved by the FDA and is used in various hospitals worldwide to treat chronic wounds, burns and surgical wounds. Although it is not yet widespread in the Netherlands, hospitals are expected to adopt it in the foreseeable future, given the benefits and positive results from clinical studies.
Creepy but interesting: bandages with fish patterns
It’s a funny idea, but also a bit creepy: in the future, people might be able to choose which fish pattern they want on their bandages. Imagine being able to choose between a beautiful Kohaku or an Asagi pattern for your wound dressing. While this is scientifically possible, it also raises questions about ethics and the limits of biotechnology. Should we want everything that is technically possible? This is beginning to look like biohacking. Where does this end? Transferring characteristics of a chameleon? Personally, I find it as fascinating as it is creepy.
Conclusion
The fish scale bandage is a promising new way to treat wounds. It offers benefits such as faster healing and less risk of infection, and can be used for different types of wounds. Radboud University Nijmegen plays an important role in the research of this bandage, so we can be sure that it is safe and effective.
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Sources:
- Radboud Universiteit Nijmegen
- Investigating the regenerative properties of fish scales
- Innovations in wound care technology
