Pathogenic and non-pathogenic microbes in the wound microbiome-how to flip the switch

The wound microbiome refers to the specific community of microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, that are present in and around a wound. This microbiome plays a crucial role in wound healing, as it includes both healing-promoting and pathogenic microbes. The balance between these microbes significantly influences the healing process; a balanced microbial colonization can support wound healing and prevent infections, while an overgrowth of pathogenic microbes can lead to delayed healing processes and complications. The composition of the wound microbiome can vary depending on the type of wound, cause, genetic predisposition, and (social) environment. In this scope review, the complex interactions in the wound microbiome will be highlighted and the importance of non-pathogenic microbes for wound healing will be discussed. In addition, possible therapeutic approaches to restore a healthy microbiome and prevent infections will be addressed. A deeper understanding of these dynamics could open up new perspectives for the treatment of wounds and the development of strategies to combat wound infections.