Search Results (352)

The growing demand for sustainable materials has led to increased interest in biodegradable polymer fibers and nonwoven mats due to their eco-friendly characteristics and potential to reduce plastic pollution. This review highlights how mechanical properties influence the performance and suitability of biodegradable polymer fibers across diverse applications. This covers synthetic polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), polycaprolactone (PCL), polyglycolic acid (PGA), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), as well as natural polymers including chitosan, collagen, cellulose, alginate, silk fibroin, and starch-based polymers. A range of fiber production methods is discussed, including electrospinning, centrifugal spinning, spunbonding, melt blowing, melt spinning, and wet spinning, with attention to how each technique influences tensile strength, elongation, and modulus. The review also addresses advances in composite fibers, nanoparticle incorporation, crosslinking methods, and post-processing strategies that improve mechanical behavior. In addition, mechanical testing techniques such as tensile test machine, atomic force microscopy, and dynamic mechanical analysis are examined to show how fabrication parameters influence fiber performance. This review examines the mechanical performance of biodegradable polymer fibers and fibrous mats, emphasizing their potential as sustainable alternatives to conventional materials in applications such as tissue engineering, drug delivery, medical implants, wound dressings, packaging, and filtration. Full article

Biopolymer films doped with active substances may become a promising alternative to traditional dressings for skin wounds, as they can deliver drugs while maintaining wound moisture, thus contributing to the healing process. This article describes the preparation of amygdalin-doped biopolymer films for in vitro testing against the bacterial strains typical of chronic wounds: E. coli and S. aureus. Thus, FTIR characterization suggests minimal chemical interaction between amygdalin and the biopolymer matrix components, indicating potential compatibility, while thermogravimetric analysis highlights the thermal behavior of the films as well as the influence of the polymer matrix composition on the amount of bound water and the shift of T_peak value for the decomposition process of the base polymer. Moreover, the identity of the secondary biopolymer (gelatin or CMC) significantly influences film morphology and antibacterial performance. Full article

Developing innovative, low-cost halochromic materials for diagnosing microbial contamination in wounds and burns can effectively facilitate tissue regeneration. Here, we combine the pH-sensing capability of highly colorful red cabbage anthocyanins (RCAs) with their healing potential within a unique cellulose polymer film that mimics the skin matrix. Biological activities of RCA extract in bacterial cellulose (BC) showed no cytotoxicity and skin-sensitizing potential to human cells at concentrations of RCAs similar to those released from BC/RCA dressings (4.0–40.0 µg/mL). A decrease in cell viability and apoptosis was observed in human cancer cells with RCAs. The invisible eye detection of the early color change signal from RCAs in response to pH alteration by bacteria was recorded with a smartphone application. The incorporation of RCAs into BC polymer has altered the morphology of its matrix, resulting in a denser cellulose microfibril network. The complete coincidence of the vibrational modes detected in the absorption spectra of the cellulose/RCA composite with the modes in RCAs most likely indicates that RCAs retain their structure in the BC matrix. Affordable, sensitive halochromic BC/RCA hydrogels can be recommended for online monitoring of microbial contamination, making them accessible to patients. Full article

Wounds are undeniably important gateways for pathogens to enter the body. In addition to their detrimental local effects, they can also cause adverse systemic effects. For this reason, developing methods for eradicating pathogens from wounds is a challenging medical issue. Polymers, particularly hydrogels, are one of the more essential materials for designing novel drug-delivery systems, thanks to the ease of tuning their structures. This work exploits this property by utilizing copolymerization, microwave modification, and drug-loading processes to obtain antibacterial gels. Synthesized xylitol-modified glycidyl methacrylate-co-ethyl methacrylate ([P(EMA)-co-(GMA)]-Xyl]) matrices were loaded with bacitracin, gentian violet, furazidine, and brilliant green, used as active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The hydrophilic properties, API release mechanism, and antibacterial properties of the obtained hydrogels against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus epidermidis containing [P(EMA)-co-(GMA)]-Xyl] were studied. The hydrogels with the APIs efficiently inhibit bacteria growth with low doses of drugs, and our findings are statistically significant, confirmed with ANOVA analysis at p = 0.05. The results confirmed that the proposed system is hydrophilic and has extended the drug-release capabilities of APIs with a controlled burst effect based on [P(EMA)-co-(GMA)]-Xyl] content in the hydrogel. Hydrogels are characterized by the prolonged release of APIs in a very short time (a few minutes). Although the amount of released APIs is about 10%, it still exceeds the minimum inhibitory concentrations of drugs. Several kinetic models (first-order, second-order, Baker–Lonsdale, and Korsmeyer–Peppas) were applied to fit the API release data from the [P(EMA)-co-(GMA)]-Xyl-based hydrogel. The best fit of the Korsmeyer–Peppas kinetic model to the experimental data was determined, and it was confirmed that a diffusion-controlled release mechanism of the APIs from the studied hydrogels is dominant, which is desirable for applications requiring a consistent, controlled release of therapeutic agents. A statistical analysis of API release using Linear Mixed Model was performed, examining the relationship between % mass of API, sample (hydrogels and control), time, sample–time interaction, and variability between individuals. The model fits the data well, as evidenced by the determination coefficients close to 1. The analyzed interactions in the data are reliable and statistically significant (p < 0.001). The outcome of this study suggests that the presented acrylate-based gel is a promising candidate for developing wound dressings. Full article

Antimicrobial resistance arises from treatment non-adherence and ineffective delivery systems. Optimal wound dressings combine localized drug release, exudate management, and bacterial encapsulation through hydrogel-forming nanofibers for enhanced therapy. In this work, polylactic acid (PLA) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) fibers loaded with chlorhexidine (CHX) were developed using Solution Blow Spinning (SBS), a scalable electrospinning alternative that enables in situ deposition. Molecular interactions between CHX and polymers in solution (by UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy) and in solid state (by FTIR, XRD and thermal analysis) were studied. The morphology of the polymeric fibers was determined by optical microscopy, showing that PVP fibers are thinner (1625 nm) and more uniform than those of PLA (2237 nm). Finally, drug release from single-polymer fibers discs, overlapping fibers discs (PLA/PVP/PLA and PVP/PLA/PVP), and solid dispersions was determined by UV-Vis spectrometry. PVP-based fibers exhibited faster CHX release due to their hydrophilic nature, while PLA fibers proved sustained release, attributed to their hydrophobic matrix. This study highlights the potential of PLA/PVP-CHX fibers made from SBS as advanced wound dressings, combining biocompatibility and personalized drug delivery, offering a promising platform for localized and controlled antibiotic delivery. Full article

Background/Objectives: The utility of various biocompatible biological and synthetic polymers as substrates to provide structural support, facilitate cell migration, and promote the healing of full-thickness wounds by secondary intention has been studied. This includes intelligent structures that enable the release of natural products or drugs for these and other purposes. In this study, the primary objective was to analyze and compare, from a macroscopic perspective, the individual behavior of the polymer poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), with Aloe vera (PHBV/Av) or honey (PHBV/Ho), in the healing process of a full-thickness skin wound over 40 days in a murine model, in addition to describing the microscopic ultrastructure of the nanofibers. Methods: Two experimental groups were established, PHVB/AV (n = 5) and PHVB/Ho (n = 5), along with one control group, PHBV (n = 5), all of which underwent biopsies that included the entire thickness of the skin and the panniculus carnosus of the mid-dorsal area of the mouse. Cylindrical pieces of each membrane, measuring approximately 7 × 0.2 mm, were placed in the wound bed and covered with a transparent dressing. No topical treatment was administered during the control process, nor were the implants changed during the healing period. Results: Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. The data show that the PHBV/Ho scaffolds reduce the diameter of the wounds by 100% after 40 days (p < 0.001), compared with PHBV/Av (100%; p = 0.211) and the control group, PHBV. Conclusions: From a macroscopic perspective, the PHBV/Ho scaffold significantly accelerated wound healing when applied once to the wound bed, outperforming both the PHBV/Av composite and PHBV alone. Notably, this effect was achieved without the need for dressing changes or additional treatment during the healing period. Full article

Quercetin (QUE) is a bioactive flavonoid that is naturally present in various fruits and possesses many pharmacological activities. Despite its health benefits, the bioavailability of quercetin is relatively low due to its crystalline form and hydrophobic structure. An approach to overcoming these drawbacks is its incorporation into amorphous polymer matrices. PLA and PLA/PEG fibrous materials loaded with QUE were obtained by electrospinning. The XRD analysis revealed a visible decrease in the crystallinity of QUE after its incorporation into PLA and PLA/PEG fibers. The obtained fibrous materials and, especially, the PLA/PEG mat loaded with the flavonoid exhibited high antioxidant activity due to the better wettability and higher release rate of the bioactive compound. Moreover, the PLA/QUE and PLA/PEG/QUE mats possessed antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Furthermore, the antitumor activity of the prepared mats was tested against SH-4 cancer cells and HaCaT keratinocytes. The obtained results reveal that the QUE-loaded fibrous mats exhibited high anticancer activity against cancer cells but lower toxicity to normal keratinocytes. The combined antioxidant, antibacterial and in vitro antitumor activities render these novel PLA-based materials loaded with QUE promising candidates for wound dressing applications and for application in local tumor treatment. Full article

Nanogels are polymer-based, crosslinked hydrogel particles on the nanometer scale. Nanogels developed from synthetic and natural polymers have gathered a great deal of attention in industry and scientific society due to having an increased surface area, softness, flexibility, absorption, and drug loading ability, as well as their mimicking the environment of a tissue. Nanogels having biocompatibility, nontoxic and biodegradable properties with exceptional design, fabrication, and coating facilities may be used for a variety of different biomedical applications, such as drug delivery and therapy, tissue engineering, and bioimaging. Nanogels fabricated by chemical crosslinking and physical self-assembly displayed the ability to encapsulate therapeutics, including hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and small molecules, proteins, peptides, RNA and DNA sequences, and even ultrasmall nanoparticles within their three-dimensional polymer networks. One of the many drug delivery methods being investigated as a practical option for targeted delivery of drugs for cancer treatment is nanogels. The delivery of DNA and anticancer drugs like doxorubicin, epirubicin, and paclitaxel has been eased by polymeric nanogels. Stimuli-responsive PEGylated nanogels have been reported as smart nanomedicines for cancer diagnostics and therapy. Another promising biomedical application of nanogels is wound healing. Wounds are injuries to living tissue caused by a cut, blow, or other impact. There are numerous nanogels having different polymer compositions that have been reported to enhance the wound healing process, such as hyaluronan, poly-L-lysine, and berberine. When antimicrobial resistance is present, wound healing becomes a complicated process. Researchers are looking for novel alternative approaches, as foreign microorganisms in wounds are becoming resistant to antibiotics. Silver nanogels have been reported as a popular antimicrobial choice, as silver has been used as an antimicrobial throughout a prolonged period. Lignin-incorporated nanogels and lidocaine nanogels have also been reported as an antioxidant wound-dressing material that can aid in wound healing. In this review, we will summarize recent progress in biomedical applications for various nanogels, with a prime focus on cancer and wound healing. Full article

Background/Objectives: Recent studies highlight the excellent wound-healing properties of collagen and chitosan materials. Combining these polymers with a bioactive compound could enhance their effectiveness as next-generation wound dressings. Hydroxytyrosol (HT), an antioxidant derived from olive oil, may aid wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and angiogenesis-stimulating properties, making it a beneficial addition to collagen–chitosan dressings. It could be a beneficial addition to collagen–chitosan dressings, thus improving their therapeutic effects. This study screens the potential of collagen–chitosan composites with HT for wound-healing applications and assesses the influence of the compound’s incorporation on the materials’ properties. Methods: The material production involved incorporating chitosan and HT into a marine collagen extract. The resulting collagen–chitosan–HT material was obtained through freeze-drying. Prototype dressing characterization included morphology by scanning electron microscopy, solid and hydrated state by textural and rheological studies, and in vitro HT release studies. The materials’ cytocompatibility screening was assessed using a mouse fibroblast cell line, and the antibacterial activity was evaluated against microorganisms commonly implicated in wound infections. Results: Burst strength, viscosity, frequency sweep test, tackiness, and adhesion results indicate that chitosan contributes to the material’s mechanical robustness by maintaining a high viscosity and preserving the material’s gel structure. The in vitro release studies suggest an HT-controlled release profile with a maximum release (70%) achieved after 10 h. Biological experiments confirmed the materials’ cytocompatibility with skin cells and very promising antibacterial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Conclusions: In conclusion, HT was successfully incorporated into a collagen–chitosan matrix, enhancing the therapeutic prospect of the resultant material. The collagen–chitosan–HT composite presents a promising potential as an advanced wound-healing material. Full article

The lack of personalized wound dressings tailored to individual needs can significantly hinder wound healing. Hydrogels offer a promising solution, as they can be engineered to mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM), providing an optimal environment for wound repair. The integration of digital light processing (DLP), a high-resolution 3D printing process, allows precise customization of hydrogel-based wound dressings. In this study, gelatin methacrylate (GelMA)-based formulations were prepared in combination with three different polymeric precursors: methacrylated hyaluronic acid (HAMA), poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) and allyl cellulose (MCCA). These precursors were used to print high-resolution micropatterned patches. The printed constructs revealed a high gel content and a good resistance to hydrolytic degradation. To improve the adhesive and antioxidant properties of the printed patches, gallic acid (GA) was incorporated through surface functionalization. This enabled the scavenging of approximately 80% of free radicals within just 4 h. The adhesive properties of the printed wound dressings were also significantly improved, with further enhancement observed upon the addition of Fe³⁺ ions. In vitro cytocompatibility tests using a fibroblast (NHDF) cell line confirmed the suitability of the materials for biomedical applications. Thus, this study demonstrates the potential of DLP-printed hydrogels as advanced personalized wound dressing materials. Full article

In addition to protection against microorganisms and hemostasis, wound dressings are now expected to actively promote healing. A water-absorbing complex of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was developed by mixing the polymers under specific conditions. This complex swells in water and adheres strongly to biological tissues. Upon application to a wound, it absorbs blood, swells, and adheres firmly, providing coverage. During this process, blood cells that infiltrate the gel secrete growth factors and other bioactive molecules, which are retained and gradually released toward the wound, promoting healing. In the present study, the mechanical properties of the PAA/PVP complexes were analyzed, and their healing-promoting effects were examined. In a diabetic mouse skin wound model, untreated wounds remained over 95% of their original size after 4 days. In contrast, wounds treated with the PAA/PVP complex shrank to 70–75% of their original size by day 4, and further reduced to 17–23% by day 11. Histological analysis on day 11 showed complete or nearly complete re-epithelialization in PAA/PVP-treated wounds, while untreated wounds exhibited incomplete tissue regeneration. These results suggest that the PAA/PVP complex not only provides physical protection, but also facilitates tissue repair, demonstrating its potential as a next-generation wound dressing. Full article

Collagen-based wound dressings have developed as an essential component of contemporary wound care, utilizing collagen’s inherent properties to promote healing. This review thoroughly analyzes collagen dressing advances, examining different formulations such as hydrogels, films, and foams that enhance wound care. The important processes by which collagen promotes healing (e.g., promoting angiogenesis, encouraging cell proliferation, and offering structural support) are discussed to clarify its function in tissue regeneration. The effectiveness and adaptability of collagen dressings are demonstrated via clinical applications investigated in acute and chronic wounds. Additionally, commercially accessible collagen-based skin healing treatments are discussed, demonstrating their practical use in healthcare settings. Despite the progress, the study discusses the obstacles and restrictions encountered in producing and adopting collagen-based dressings, such as the difficulties of manufacturing and financial concerns. Finally, the current landscape’s insights indicate future research possibilities for collagen dressing optimization, bioactive agent integration, and overcoming existing constraints. This analysis highlights the potential of collagen-based innovations to improve wound treatment methods and patient care. Full article

Grapes are a fruit with origins dating back to ancient times. Their first recorded use, as mentioned in the Bible, was in winemaking. The abundance of bioactive compounds in grapes makes them highly valuable. So far, many varieties of cultivated grapes have been developed for table grapes, wine grapes, and raisin production. In addition to these uses, since grapes contain a variety of nutrients, including resveratrol, flavonoids (such as flavonols, anthocyanins, and catechins), melatonin, vitamins, acids, tannins, and other antioxidants, grape extracts have been widely studied for medical applications. This paper reviews the medical effects of these compounds on cancer, cardiovascular disease, brain and neurological disorders, eye diseases, skin disorders, kidney health, diabetes, and gastric diseases, along with the medical applications of grapes in drug delivery, wound dressing, and tissue engineering. In addition, the limitations of the grapes-derived polymers and future research perspectives are discussed. These benefits highlight that the value of grapes extends far beyond their traditional use in wine and raisin production. Full article

Wound healing is a complex process involving stages such as hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. In this context, polymers are useful materials for wound treatment. This research used the Casting method to prepare films from 2% polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) gels. Subsequently, PVP films were grafted with maleic acid (MA) (PVP-g-PAM) to load naringin (NA) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in order to obtain a material with pH responsiveness and antibacterial properties. The modified PVP-g-PAM films were prepared using gamma-ray irradiation through a pre-irradiation oxidative method at a dose rate of 13.7 kGy h⁻¹, doses ranging from 10 to 25 kGy, and reaction times from 50 to 80 min in a bath of water, all samples at 50 °C, and a fixed monomer concentration of 15% (w/v) MA in THF. The conditions that yielded the highest percentage of grafting were 20 kGy and 60 min. NA was loaded at a fixed concentration of 5%. Data release showed that the films follow the Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetic model. Synthesis of AgNPs was performed by γ-ray irradiation–reduction (10 and 30 kGy), using PVP as a stabilizer. AgNPs showed in vitro effectiveness against E. coli and S. aureus. Films were characterized by FTIR-ATR, TGA, DSC, mechanical properties, swelling index, and contact angle. Further studies must be implemented; however, the results up now suggest that PVP-g-PAM loaded with NA and AgNPs can be useful as a potential wound dressing. Full article

Wound management presents a significant clinical challenge due to the rising prevalence of chronic wounds caused by conditions such as venous insufficiency, diabetes, and obesity, alongside acute injuries and surgical wounds. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of key materials used in wound dressings, contextualizing their origin, chemical structure, and intrinsic properties while emphasizing their roles in promoting wound healing. Particular attention is given to materials’ capacity to stimulate regeneration and incorporate substances such as antimicrobial agents and growth factors to enhance functionality. Additionally, this review examines antimicrobial dressings as a critical tool for controlling bioburden and enhancing healing, detailing their mechanisms of action, advantages, and limitations. By addressing strategies for hydrogel application and the effectiveness of both natural and synthetic polymers, this analysis bridges the gap between material science and clinical practice. This review aims to analyze the development of cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and versatile wound dressings that meet diverse clinical needs. This synthesis of material science and antimicrobial strategies offers a foundational resource for advancing wound care solutions. Full article