Muscat – A research team at the University of Nizwa is pioneering the use of 3D bioprinting to develop an active wound dressing that stimulates tissue regeneration, offering a promising alternative to conventional dressings that merely cover injuries, opening new possibilities for the treatment of chronic wounds.
The study recently won first place at the 12th National Research Award 2025, presented during the annual Researchers’ Forum held under the theme ‘Research Published… Visions Realised’. The project was recognised for its contribution to regenerative medicine and its potential clinical application, particularly in treating hard-to-heal wounds.
The award-winning research was led by Dr Sulaiman bin Ali al Hashmi, Head of Laboratory for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine at the Natural and Medical Sciences Research Centre, University of Nizwa.
Hashmi said the study builds on years of research in stem cells and tissue engineering, combined with close analysis of real-world clinical challenges associated with chronic wounds.
“Chronic wounds, especially those linked to diabetes, represent a growing medical burden,” he said, noting that the rising prevalence of diabetes in Oman has increased the demand for more effective and sustainable treatment solutions.
Unlike conventional wound treatments that focus mainly on protection, the bioprinted dressing is designed to actively support the body’s natural healing processes. “Our aim is not only to cover the wound, but to create an environment that promotes tissue regeneration, reduces inflammation and improves overall healing outcomes,” Hashmi explained.
The dressing is produced using 3D bioprinting technology and is made from carboxymethyl chitosan, infused with the immunosuppressive drug tacrolimus. According to Hashmi, the material plays a dual role by regulating inflammatory responses while encouraging tissue regeneration, with controlled drug release enhancing treatment effectiveness.
Laboratory tests and animal studies have shown encouraging results, including faster wound healing and reduced inflammation. However, Hashmi stressed that the treatment remains at an experimental stage and has not yet been approved for human use, pending further safety evaluations and clinical trials.
He noted that the project faced several technical challenges, particularly in developing a biocompatible material suitable for 3D printing, as well as limitations in advanced infrastructure needed to translate laboratory research into clinical application. “These challenges ultimately strengthened the research and encouraged collaboration,” he said.
Hashmi also underscored the importance of specialised research laboratories in building a competitive national research ecosystem, adding that the work at the Laboratory for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine is driven by teamwork and shared expertise.
Looking ahead, he said future efforts will focus on advancing regenerative medicine and stem cell research, refining treatment models and building national research teams capable of delivering practical scientific outcomes.
“The ultimate goal of scientific research is to improve quality of life,” he said, adding that the project represents a step towards translating research findings into real treatments that benefit patients and the wider community.
