Development of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose acetate succinate and kappa carrageenan films loaded with curcumin for wound healing

Abstract

Curcumin (CUR) has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity, which has motivated its use in wound healing. Films have shown to be promising systems as they can provide a sustained release, reducing the number of applications and microbial resistance problems. In this new study, CUR-loaded films presenting different proportions of k-carrageenan (κ-CAR) and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose succinate acetate (HPMCAS) were prepared by the solvent casting method. The use of polymer combinations allows for more precise adjustment of release profile and mechanical properties. FTIR and thermal analyses suggested strong chemical interactions between these polymers, which contributed to explaining the improved mechanical properties, such as high values of elastic modulus, of the films. The amorphous state of the materials and the formation of pores in the internal structure of the matrix, as evidenced by SEM analysis, would enhance the penetration of wound exudate, leading to the consequent release of CUR. Moreover, a sustained CUR release and a local distribution in the human skin, with no systemic exposure and high retention in the epidermis, were found. The formulations also showed to be active against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 2000 mg L−1) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MIC = 2000 mg L−1), which are the two main pathogens found in wounds. Taken together, these results suggest that HPMCAS/κ-CAR films are promising systems for application in wound healing.