Ag OxysaltTMTechnology: In vivo Assessment of Anti-Biofilm Efficacy and Effects on Healing

Introduction
Silver must be in its ionic state (Ag1+) to act as an antimicrobial. Dressings containing Ag Oxyalts^TM (Ag7NO11) are unique in their ability to produce higher oxidative states of silver (Ag2+/Ag3+), which are potently antimicrobial.

Purpose
We investigated the ability of an Ag Oxysalt^TM dressing to treat biofilm infected mouse wounds compared to dressings containing Ag¹⁺ or Ag¹⁺ + EDTA and benzethonium chloride (BC). In addition, we also investigated their effects on healing independent of infection.

Methods
The effects of silver dressings on mature (72hr) P. aeruginosa and S. aureus biofilm infected murine wounds were assessed after 3 days of treatment. Representative SEM images were taken to identify bacteria within the wound. Uninfected murine wounds were also treated with the silver dressings for 3 days. In all cases, wound area and re-epithelialisation were assessed.

Results-Healing Independent of Infection
Ag OxysaltsTMPromote Healing Independent of Infection

To determine if the potent antimicrobial nature of the silver dressings have an adverse effect on healing independent of infection, uninfected murine wounds were treated with silver dressings and wound area and re-epithelialisation quantified.

Conclusions
Dressings containing Ag Oxysalts^TM

• Effectively and uniformly kill bacteria within a biofilm.
• Promote healing of biofilm infected mouse wounds.
• Do not adversely affect, and may even promote, healing independent of infection.