Customizable 3D-Printed Medicated Scaffolds Developed to Combat Chronic Diabetic Ulcers and Persistent Pressure Sores

University of Mississippi researchers develop 3D-printed chitosan scaffolds using natural antimicrobials to heal persistent diabetic ulcers and pressure sores.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 17, 2026, 4:21 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from University of Mississippi

Targeting the Challenges of Slow-Healing Sores

Chronic wounds, such as diabetic ulcers and pressure sores, represent a significant clinical challenge as they often persist for months or even years. These wounds frequently suffer from a reduced oxygen supply, a condition common in patients with diabetes or limited mobility, which severely inhibits the body's natural repair mechanisms. According to Sateesh Vemula, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Mississippi, this slowed healing process creates a high-risk environment for bacterial growth and infection. To address this, a research team within the School of Pharmacy has developed a customizable 3D-printed patch designed to act as a medicated scaffold, encouraging the closure of persistent sores through a steady delivery of natural healing agents.

Bio-Inspired Material Engineering with Chitosan

The foundation of the new wound patch is chitosan, a natural, biodegradable material derived from the shells of crustaceans, insects, and fungi. Chitosan was selected for its unique ability to accelerate the regeneration of skin cells while simultaneously reducing localized inflammation. Unlike many traditional bandages that are manufactured using organic solvents which can irritate sensitive tissue, the 3D-printed scaffold is free of these potentially harmful chemicals. By integrating plant-derived antimicrobials into the chitosan structure, the researchers have created a patch that fights germs without the risk of toxicity, providing a protected environment that supports the body’s intrinsic healing pace.

Combatting Bacterial Resistance via Natural Antimicrobials

One of the primary advantages of the University of Mississippi’s technology is its reliance on natural products rather than traditional antibiotics. Distinguished professor Michael Repka noted that the prolonged use of standard antibiotics can often lead to the development of resistant bacterial strains, complicating the treatment of chronic wounds. By utilizing plant-derived antimicrobial agents, the 3D-printed scaffold provides a protective barrier against infection while minimizing the risk of promoting antibiotic resistance. This approach ensures that the wound remains sterile over long periods, allowing the scaffold to provide continuous support without the side effects typically associated with long-term pharmaceutical exposure.