Postgraduate student developed a novel silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)

Under the guidance of Dr Abhishek Gupta, Khabat Jamel, an MSc postgraduate student from the Department of Biomedical Science in the Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE), has developed a groundbreaking biodegradable wound dressing that holds the potential to transform wound care. This innovative hydrogel, created as part of Jamel’s MSc. research project, combines the natural healing properties of thyme and ginger with the potent antimicrobial action of silver nanoparticles, offering a sustainable and effective alternative for wound care.

Dr Abhishek Gupta, a Senior Lecturer in Physiology and Pharmacology in the School of Pharmacy at FSE is an expert in advanced wound dressings with over a decade of experience. Under the supervision of Dr Gupta, Khabat synthesised silver nanoparticles using green chemistry methods. Dr Gupta has a well-established track record in the field of advanced biosynthetic materials and green nanotechnology, with a focus on their biomedical applications for effectively managing a variety of wounds. This approach avoided harmful chemicals and utilized the natural bioreducing properties of thyme and ginger extracts. Thyme, known for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, and ginger, famed for its anti-inflammatory effects, were selected for their unique contributions to wound healing. These silver nanoparticles were incorporated into bacterial cellulose hydrogels, resulting in a cutting-edge wound dressing with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.

The hydrogel’s transparency allows easy wound monitoring without needing to remove the dressing, making it particularly beneficial for managing chronic wounds, such as those experienced by diabetic patients and individuals with pressure ulcers.

"Our thyme & ginger-silver nanoparticle-loaded hydrogels offer a next-generation solution for wound care. Using natural extracts from thyme and ginger, we've crafted a dressing that not only combats infection but does so in an environmentally sustainable way." She said "Chronic wounds are notoriously difficult to treat, especially with rising antibiotic resistance. Our hydrogel, fortified with green-synthesised silver nanoparticles, presents a powerful, eco-friendly alternative to conventional treatments."

"What sets our wound dressing apart is the fusion of cutting-edge nanotechnology with the healing properties of thyme and ginger. This dual-action dressing not only reduces bacterial growth but also allows for easier wound monitoring."

Khabat showcased similar products while participating in Gazebo at the Beyond Futures - Festival of Research & Innovation in July 2024, where Dr. Abhishek Gupta presented related research on Curcumin-AgNPs-loaded hydrogels. At the booth, Khabat explained the benefits of these novel wound dressings to attendees.