The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was given to three scientists who discovered how cells sense and adapt to oxygen (O2) availability. The human body breathes 21% O2 found in the air however this O2 is distributed at different reduced levels to organs and tissues. The amount of oxygen required by specific parts of the body varies and disturbances in O2 concentrations can be consequential when considering pathologies such as cancer, stroke and wound repair. It is estimated that 1–2% of the general population in developed countries will experience a chronic wound.
Many wound care applications are available today. Particularly, placental and umbilical cord tissue-derived bandages or scaffolds which are easily accessible and cost effective. They are known for their biocompatibility, biodegradability, angiogenic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifibrotic, immunomodulatory, and immune privileged properties. However, no bandage or wound dressing is administered having the compatible tissue oxygenation. O2MATRIX™ is the first product created with the intention of producing a more naturally oxygenated environment for enhanced wound healing and tissue engineering.