Researchers have created a substance designed to help wounds heal faster

A 'glue' engineered to allow faster healing of wounds. 

It may sound like something out of "Asimov's Science Fiction" magazine, but researchers in Switzerland have created a substance designed to help wounds heal faster, from minor cuts to broken bones, reports LiveScience.

The substance, referred to as "engineered growth factor," works by "remaining near the damaged tissue longer than it normally would."

Growth factors are defined as proteins produced naturally by animals. These factors have a variety of uses in the body, from contributing to fetal development to healing skin gashes and broken bones. When the body is injured, growth factors signal certain cells to surround the wound and promote healing.

While growth factors are essential in the healing of wounds, it is difficult to get such proteins to "stick where they are needed." Long-lasting, engineered "glue" could subsequently benefit those with chronic wounds stemming from diabetes or immune system deficiencies.

Studies were conducted on mutant mice with genetic defects making it difficult for wounds to heal. The substance was applied to new wounds on the mice, signaling cells to help heal the damage, and quickly. Its ability to stay put means it could be applied to injuries in much smaller doses, with scientists able to use amounts "up to 250 times smaller" than any such substance used previously. Continue reading...