Novel 3D printed polysaccharide-based materials with prebiotic activity for potential treatment of diaper rash

Diaper rash, mainly occurring as erythema and itching in the diaper area, causes considerable distress to infants and toddlers. Increasing evidence suggests that an unequal distribution of microorganisms on the skin contributes to the development of diaper dermatitis. Probiotic bacteria, like Staphylococcus epidermidis, are crucial for maintaining a healthy balance in the skin's microbiome, among others, through their fermentative metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids. Using a defined prebiotic as a carbon source (e.g., as part of the diaper formulation) can selectively trigger the fermentation of probiotic bacteria. A proper material choice can reduce diaper rash incidence by diminishing the skin exposure to wetness and faeces. Using 3D printing, we fabricated carbon-rich materials for the top sheet layer of baby diapers that enhance the probiotic activity of S. epidermidis. The developed materials' printability, chemical composition, swelling ability, and degradation rate were analysed. In addition, microbiological tests evaluated their potential as a source of in situ short-chain fatty acid production. Finally, biocompatibility testing with skin cells evaluated their safety for potential use as part of diapers. The results demonstrate a cost-effective approach for producing novel materials that can tailor the ecological balance of the skin microflora and help treat diaper rash.