Modulation of matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity by hydrofiber-foam hybrid dressing – relevant support in the treatment of chronic wounds

Success in chronic wound therapy requires careful selection of appropriate dressing, which enables effective management of wound exudate. According to current knowledge, exudate may contain large quantities of proteases, including matrix metalloproteinases, MMP-2 and MMP-9, which are responsible for delay in wound healing. Therefore, neutralization of MMPs may be beneficial for treatment efficacy. The aim of the study was to test whether AQUACEL Foam, a novel, technologically advanced hydrofiber-foam hybrid dressing (HFHD), may interfere with proteolytic activity of MMPs in vitro. The assessment included in vitro tests of liquid retention and measurement of human recombinant MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity. The MMPs activity was measured before and after their interaction with HFHD, using a fluorescent gelatinase assay kit and Real-Time PCR device. The in vitro tests have shown that the hydrofiber layer of HFHD revealed significant potential to decrease the activity of MMPs in the experimental system. The mentioned modulatory properties of AQUACEL Foam may contribute to a composed mechanism of its beneficial action. Furthermore, our finding may explain clinical effectiveness of HFHD observed in clinical settings.