Science News from research organizations Scientists discover why some wounds refuse to heal Date: January 20, 2026 Source: Nanyang Technological University Summary: Scientists have uncovered a surprising reason why some chronic wounds refuse to heal, even when treated with antibiotics. A common bacterium found in long-lasting wounds does not just resist drugs.

It actively releases damaging molecules that overwhelm skin cells and stop them from repairing tissue. Researchers discovered that neutralizing these harmful molecules with antioxidants allows skin cells to recover and restart healing.

Share: Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIN Email FULL STORY Scientists discovered why some wounds stay open and how a simple shift in treatment could help them heal again. Credit: Shutterstock An international research team led by Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), has identified a promising way to help chronic wounds heal faster, including wounds infected with antibiotic resistant bacteria.

Chronic wounds are a growing global health problem. Each year, about 18.6 million people worldwide develop diabetic foot ulcers.1 Over a lifetime, as many as one in three people with diabetes may experience a foot ulcer.