A Beneficial Bacterium Promotes Wound Healing: New Insights into the Wound Microbiome

Chronic wounds, which affect approximately 2% of the global population, represent a major healthcare challenge, often leading to severe pain, mental health issues, and reduced quality of life. However, a new study offers hope, revealing that a bacterium found in the wound microbiome, Alcaligenes faecalis, can accelerate wound healing.

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, led by Ellen White from Elizabeth Grice’s team, discovered that this environmental, non-pathogenic bacterium secretes factors that enhance wound repair. The findings, published in Science Advances, highlight the potential for microbiota-based therapies.

Using a diabetic mouse model, the researchers demonstrated that wounds treated with A. faecalis healed significantly faster than untreated wounds. Further experiments revealed that the bacterium promotes keratinocyte migration, a critical process in the early stages of wound healing.

The study also uncovered that A. faecalis downregulates genes encoding matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)—enzymes that, in diabetic conditions, are overexpressed and impair wound healing. By reducing excessive MMP activity, A. faecalis creates a conducive environment for tissue repair.

“This study shifts the perspective on the wound microbiome, showing that not all bacteria in chronic wounds are harmful. Beneficial bacteria, like A. faecalis, could pave the way for innovative wound therapies,” said White.

Experts in the field, such as Irena Pastar from the University of Miami, emphasized the importance of understanding microbial interactions in wounds. The findings could lead to targeted therapies that retain helpful bacteria while selectively addressing harmful pathogens.

Future research aims to isolate the pro-healing factors secreted by A. faecalis and evaluate their potential in clinical trials. This groundbreaking work provides a new avenue for addressing chronic wounds, offering hope to millions worldwide.

Source: https://www.the-scientist.com/a-beneficial-bacterium-helps-wounds-heal-72382