Glue clue in artificial tan

Tuesday June 1st, 2010

Scientists say a compound used to make tanning spray may provide the basis for a radical new surgical glue.

Researchers say they have successfully used the chemical, DHA or dihydroxyacetone, to create a glue.

Early laboratory studies suggest the glue may be an effective way to seal internal wounds.

DHA is a compound found in the body and forms the basis of sunless tans as it enables the "tan" to stick to the skin without being wiped off. However it degrades rapidly.

Writing in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the researchers say they have successfully used it to create a gel, known as MPEG-pDHA. This could be injected by syringe and used to stick tissues together.

The researchers say a key application would be during breast surgery, when cavities may be left that fill with seroma fluid. But it could also be used to prevent bleeding during other procedures.

Researcher Dr Jason Spector, of Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, USA, said: "This is an unpleasant side effect of surgery that is often unavoidable. The new substance would act to glue together the hole left behind to prevent seroma build-up.

"Making a polymer from DHA has eluded chemical engineers for about 20 years."

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences May 31 2010

Tags: Dermatology | General Health | North America

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