Scientists Crack Chronic Wound Healing Without Antibiotics

Scientists just found a way to help chronic wounds heal without relying on antibiotics, potentially saving thousands of limbs each year from amputation.

A team led by Nanyang Technological University in Singapore discovered that a common bacterium called Enterococcus faecalis doesn't poison wounds with toxins like other germs. Instead, it produces hydrogen peroxide that literally paralyzes skin cells and stops them from closing wounds.

The finding solves a medical mystery that has puzzled doctors for years. Nearly 19 million people worldwide develop diabetic foot ulcers annually, and up to one in three people with diabetes will face a foot ulcer in their lifetime.

Research Fellow Dr. Aaron Tan found that the bacterium uses a process called extracellular electron transport to continuously pump out hydrogen peroxide. This chemical triggers a stress response in skin cells that freezes them in place, preventing the natural wound-closing process.

When the team tested genetically modified bacteria without this metabolic pathway, the germs lost their power to block healing. This confirmed the metabolic process itself was the weapon, not bacterial toxins as previously assumed.

The solution turned out to be surprisingly simple. Researchers treated affected skin cells with catalase, a natural enzyme that breaks down hydrogen peroxide.

The enzyme reduced cellular stress and restored the skin cells' ability to move and repair wounds. Published in Science Advances, the breakthrough offers a path forward that sidesteps the growing crisis of antibiotic resistance.

Why This Inspires

This discovery represents a complete shift in thinking about infection treatment. Instead of trying to kill increasingly resistant bacteria with stronger antibiotics, doctors may soon neutralize the harmful chemicals bacteria produce.

Associate Professor Guillaume Thibault explained the game-changing approach: "Instead of targeting the source, we neutralize the actual cause of the chronic wounds." The method could work even against antibiotic-resistant strains that currently leave doctors with few options.

In Singapore alone, over 16,000 people develop chronic wounds annually, particularly older adults and people with diabetes. The treatment approach could prevent countless amputations and give patients back their mobility and independence.

The research opens doors to treating other stubborn infections where bacteria use similar metabolic weapons. Scientists can now focus on what bacteria do rather than what bacteria are.

Millions of people living with diabetes worldwide now have reason to hope their wounds might finally heal.