Metal based nanoparticles loaded gelatin nanocomposite films for biomedical applications

Abstract

Wound healing is a complex process involving various stages such as hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Effective wound management requires materials that provide an optimal healing environment, protect against infection, and support tissue regeneration. Biopolymer-based films, particularly those incorporating gelatin (GLT), have gained significant attention due to their biocompatibility, and ability to promote cell adhesion and proliferation. Enhancing these films with the bioactive agents such as neem leaves extract (NLE) and nanoparticles (NPs) like silver (Ag), silver-copper oxide nanocomposite (Ag-CuO NC), and silver-copper ferrite nanocomposite (Ag-CuFeand#8322;Oand#8324; NC) can further improve their therapeutic efficacy. Present study, various NPs (Ag NPs, Ag-CuO NC, Ag-CuFeand#8322;Oand#8324; NC) were synthesized by co-precipitation method and characterized via Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis.) spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD) spectra, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX). Their antioxidant activity was also verified for checking their suitability for their use in the biomedical applications. These NPs were then incorporated in the GLT films along with the NLE. The films were prepared by solvent casting method. Their water absorption capacity (WAC), water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), and porosity were checked. An appropriate range of these are required in the wound dressings as it ensures the film can absorb exudates, maintaining a moist environment conducive to healing. All the films containing NPs in them showed significant anti-bacterial properties. The structural properties were seen via Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR). Hydrophilicity is essential for the wound healing process which is checked by Water Contact Angle (WCA). The MTT assay and phase contrast microscopy results showed that the NC film had the maximum cell growth and viability. Based on the obtained results, the NC films have the potential to use as materials in the biomedical applications.