Researchers at Newcastle University and Ulster University have designed a surgical mesh that is layered with Manuka honey. This honey mesh contains an electrostatic nanocoating that demonstrated antibiotic effects for up to 3 weeks.
Dr. Piergiorgio Gentile, lead author, and a Biomedical Engineer at Newcastle University elaborated on the mesh application, "Mesh is implanted inside the body to provide stability while the internal tissues heal but, unfortunately, it also provides the perfect surface for bacteria to grow on. Once the bacteria form a biofilm on the surface, it's very difficult to treat the infection. By sandwiching the honey in a multilayer coating on the mesh surface and slowly releasing it, the aim is to inhibit the growth of the bacteria and stop the infection before it even starts.”
Manuka honey contains the presence of a unique compound, methylglyoxal, which holds specific antimicrobial properties. The research team layered the mesh, alternating between negatively-charged honey and positively charged conventional biocompatible polymer (each layer 10-20 nm thick). Their study was published in the academic journal Frontiers.