Skin and chronic wound infections are an increasing public health challenge, especially when caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. A study published in Diseases* opens new perspectives thanks to TiAB, a compound based on silver-bound titanium dioxide.

To evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity, the team tested TiAB on 155 bacterial strains isolated from patients with skin infections, including resistant forms such as MRSA (Staphylococcus aureus) and multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli. Laboratory results were encouraging: TiAB showed strong antimicrobial activity, particularly against Gram-negative bacteria such as E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which were eliminated within a few hours at low concentrations.

The data show that a 2% concentration is sufficient to exert a marked antimicrobial effect. TiAB demonstrated strong bactericidal activity within 24 hours against Gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli, K. pneumoniae, and P. aeruginosa (the latter known for its intrinsic resistance). Moreover, effectiveness was also observed against Gram-positive strains, when the contact time was extended to 48 hours.
Gram-positive bacteria, usually more difficult to treat, responded well after longer exposure times, suggesting that TiAB acts with a gradual and prolonged release. This makes it particularly promising for dermatological applications, such as creams or dressings for ulcers and chronic wounds, where continuous antimicrobial action is crucial.

“The rise of antibiotic resistance makes it urgent to develop alternative strategies. Our results show that TiAB could become very useful in treating difficult-to-manage skin infections,” said Professor Lorenzo Drago, coordinator of the study.

With its potential to fight resistant bacteria and support wound healing, TiAB stands out as a promising new ally against skin infections.

About the article

*Drago, L.; Giarritiello, F.; Deflorio, L.; Uslenghi, A.; Minasi, V.; Covi, M.; De La Motte, L.R. In Vitro Activity of Silver-Bound Titanium Dioxide (Tiab) Against Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria from Dermatological Infections. Diseases 2025, 13, 277. https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases13090277