DDRC Research

Research into the processes of wound healing is incredibly complex with many different cell types playing specific roles in the process. There is growing evidence that HBO will have multiple effects, even on a single type of cell, thus affecting multiple aspects of the wound healing process.

Using state-of-the-art biomedical techniques the targets of HBO action can be addressed through laboratory studies, using modern tissue culture techniques alongside samples taken from consenting patients and volunteers.

• Wound healing in soft tissue is being addressed with collaborative PhD studentships between DDRC, the Peninsula Medical School and the University of Plymouth.
• The effect of HBO on the cells involved with bone growth is an area of growing interest and is being addressed in collaboration with the Eastman Dental Institute (University College London).
• The effect of HBO on infection is being addressed by collaborations with both academia and NHS professionals. Current aspects under investigation include the effects of HBO on biofilms and antibiotic resistant bacteria in collaboration with the University of Plymouth and the Plymouth Marine Laboratory.

Elucidation of the manner in which HBO exerts its effect will allow us to predict potention roles for HBO in other disease states. A thorough mechanistic understanding of hyperbaric treatments is a major driving force of the research team at DDRC.