Bacterial cellulose membrane integrating phase-transited lysozyme nanofilm loaded with biguanides for dressing treatment of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, recurrent, inflammatory skin disease often accompanied by severe itching that seriously affects patients' quality of life. Conventional topical medications, including glucocorticoids and Calcineurin inhibitors, frequently cause varying adverse effects in a significant number of AD patients. Consequently, new topical treatments for AD require further investigation. Drug repurposing strategies for novel therapeutic indications offer advantages by shortening research cycles and reducing drug development costs. Biguanides, currently used in managing several diseases, are being investigated for their potential application in treating skin diseases. Meanwhile, Bacterial cellulose membrane (BCM) is an ideal candidate for functional and biomedical applications, particularly in dermatology. Additionally, phase-transited lysozyme (PTL) nanofilm technology facilitates effective adhesion while controlling drug release. To develop a more suitable therapy for AD, we first investigated the effective therapeutic targets of biguanides in treating AD. Subsequently, we developed a dressing using Bacterial cellulose membrane as the matrix while integrating PTL nanofilm loaded with biguanides. This study aimed at developing a dressing that sustainably releases biguanides, paves the way for innovative therapeutic strategies for AD.

Atopic dermatitis; Bacterial cellulose; Mitochondrial dysfunction; Phenformin; Skin barrier.