Bacterial Cellulose: A Novel Antibacterial Material for Biomedical Applications, Wound Healing, and Sustainable Infection Control

Abstract

Bacterial cellulose (BC) is an emerging biopolymer synthesized by specific microbial strains, such as Komagataeibacter xylinus. It is distinguished by its ultrafine nanofibrillar architecture, exceptional mechanical strength, high water-holding capacity, and inherent biocompatibility. Unlike plant-derived cellulose, BC is chemically pure and free from lignin and hemicellulose, making it especially attractive for biomedical use. Recently, BC has gained prominence as a multifunctional platform for applications in wound care, antimicrobial therapies, tissue engineering, and sustainable infection control. Recent advances in bioengineering and materials science have significantly broadened the functional landscape of BC. Through incorporating antibacterial agents, such as silver nanoparticles, chitosan, essential oils, or antibiotics, BC composites demonstrate potent antimicrobial efficacy while maintaining safety and biocompatibility. These hybrid materials address the critical need for novel, biodegradable alternatives to synthetic polymers in the fight against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This brief review critically examines the latest progress in BC production technologies, structural functionalization strategies, and clinical applications, with particular emphasis on its antibacterial properties and regenerative potential. The molecular mechanisms underlying its interaction with microbial cells and host tissues are also explored. Furthermore, the review outlines key challenges, such as large-scale manufacturing, regulatory hurdles, and clinical validation, and presents forward-looking perspectives on how BC could revolutionize healthcare by supporting next-generation biomaterials and sustainable therapeutic solutions.