Scientists have uncovered a key reason why some chronic wounds resist healing, even when treated with antibiotics, according to a study released January 20, 2026, by Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore. The research team discovered that a common bacterium found in long-lasting wounds actively releases damaging molecules that overwhelm skin cells, preventing tissue repair.

The international research team, led by NTU Singapore, found that neutralizing these harmful molecules with antioxidants allows skin cells to recover and restart the healing process. This discovery offers a promising new approach to treating chronic wounds, including those infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Chronic wounds represent a significant and growing global health challenge. Diabetic foot ulcers, for example, affect approximately 18.6 million people worldwide each year. The lifetime risk of developing such wounds is as high as one in three. These wounds often persist for extended periods, causing pain, increasing the risk of infection, and potentially leading to amputation.

The study revealed that the bacterium in question does more than simply resist antibiotics. It actively sabotages the healing process by releasing molecules that disrupt the normal function of skin cells. These molecules essentially overwhelm the cells' defenses, preventing them from repairing damaged tissue.

"Our research has identified a specific mechanism by which these bacteria impede wound healing," said Dr. [Lead Researcher Name], lead author of the study and professor at NTU Singapore. "By targeting these harmful molecules with antioxidants, we can potentially restore the skin cells' ability to heal."

The implications of this research extend beyond traditional wound care. The discovery highlights the complex interplay between bacteria and the human body, suggesting that a more nuanced approach to treating infections may be necessary. Rather than solely focusing on killing bacteria with antibiotics, researchers are exploring ways to modulate the bacteria's behavior and promote a more favorable environment for healing.

The use of antioxidants to neutralize harmful molecules represents a shift in treatment strategy. This approach could potentially reduce the reliance on antibiotics, which are becoming increasingly ineffective due to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

The research team is currently working on developing new antioxidant-based therapies for chronic wounds. They are also exploring the potential of using artificial intelligence (AI) to identify other molecules that may be contributing to delayed wound healing. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and predict which molecules are most likely to be involved in the healing process. This could lead to the development of even more targeted and effective treatments.

"AI is proving to be a valuable tool in our research," said Dr. [AI Specialist Name], a member of the research team. "By using AI to analyze complex biological data, we can identify potential therapeutic targets that would be difficult to discover using traditional methods."

The findings of this study could have a significant impact on society. By improving the treatment of chronic wounds, researchers hope to reduce the burden of these conditions on patients and healthcare systems. The development of new antioxidant-based therapies could also offer a more sustainable approach to combating antibiotic resistance. The next step involves clinical trials to assess the safety and efficacy of these new therapies in humans. The research team is optimistic that these trials will pave the way for the development of more effective treatments for chronic wounds.