The development of gecko glue may have human applications as a wet and dry surface adhesive:
“…”I envision that adhesive tapes made out of geckel could be used to replace sutures for wound closure, and may also be useful as a water-resistant adhesive for bandages and drug-delivery patches,” said Professor Phillip Messersmith from Northwestern University in Chicago.
“Such a bandage would remain firmly attached to the skin during bathing but would permit easy removal upon healing.”"
link: Gecko glue exploits mussel power
The possibility of glue replacing sutures is beneficial in many respects. For example, less time of exposure of a wound, for example, deduces the complications such as infection. The reduced use of sutures also has cosmetic appeal in that the wound may heal in a cleaner fashion. The water resistant aspect of the glue translates into speed which can prove to be invaluable in health/safety terms.
Catherine Forsythe
[tags]gecko glue, sutures, speed, health, safety[/tags]
