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Microbubbles powered by ultrasound vibrations may hold the secret to breaking through biofilm that inhibits wound healing, a team of British researchers found.

The biological sciences and engineering researchers outlined how combining ultrasound and miniscule amounts of nitrous oxide could disrupt biofilm and make it more susceptible to antibiotics. They believe the approach is most suited for early-stage diabetic foot ulcers, which typically present as small lesions.

In a paper published in May’s Microbial Biotechnology, the experts said the technique could advance treatment at a time when biofilms are becoming more tolerant of traditional antimicrobial therapies and nonspecific drug delivery.

“Ultrasound-responsive drug delivery agents provide a dynamic means of delivering therapeutic compounds, with high temporal and spatial specificity,” wrote lead author Gareth LuTheryn of the University of Southampton.“To achieve fundamental change in healthcare practices such as the treatment of chronic wounds, we believe this review exemplifies the need for collaborative and interdisciplinary research … to develop novel treatment.”