Biomedical Engineering in Wound Care: from Biofilm Diagnosis to Regenerative Therapy

Abstract

Chronic wound healing remains a major clinical challenge, largely due to persistent infections caused by bacterial biofilms that hinder tissue regeneration. In this presentation, Dr. Cheng will showcase an interdisciplinary research journey addressing both diagnosis and therapy. His team has developed a rapid, non-invasive diagnostic tool using wound blotting and Alcian blue staining to detect biofilm-associated polysaccharides directly from the wound bed. This method enables early identification and localization of biofilms, guiding targeted antimicrobial strategies. Following infection control, regenerative therapies are introduced. The team has pioneered scaffold-free 3D culture techniques using adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs), forming cell spheroids and sheets rich in extracellular matrix to promote tissue repair. These strategies avoid the risks associated with gene modification or growth factor use. In parallel, novel biomaterials—such as thermosensitive hydrogels and keratin-based matrices—have been engineered to act as controlled-release carriers for ASCs. These materials enhance stem cell retention, differentiation, and regenerative efficacy. The integrative approach, combining biofilm diagnostics and precision regenerative therapy, represents a promising paradigm for next-generation wound care.