Introducing PCL-Based Electrospun Nanocomposite Wound Dressings: Synergistic Effects of Curcumin and Reduced Graphene Oxide

Abstract

ABSTRACT The development of effective wound dressings is critical for enhancing patient outcomes in both acute and chronic wound care scenarios. In this research, electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds were fabricated from poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), enhanced with curcumin and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) to optimize their biomedical applications, particularly in wound healing. The resulting scaffolds were rigorously characterized through scanning electron microscopy, contact angle measurements, water uptake capacity, and water vapor transmission rate assays. The biocompatibility of these novel nanofibers was affirmed through MTT assays. Antibacterial tests confirmed the scaffolds’ ability to inhibit both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, with inhibition zones measuring up to 9.9 mm for S. aureus and 9.2 mm for E. coli. Additionally, scaffolds containing curcumin exhibited significant antioxidant activity, achieving up to 40% radical scavenging efficiency. The study further revealed the scaffolds’ capability for sustained drug release, with an initial burst release within the first 12 hours followed by a gradual release over 168 hours. Overall, the PCL-curcumin-RGO electrospun mats demonstrated considerable potential for biomedical applications, notably in the field of wound dressings, due to their enhanced antibacterial, antioxidant, and biocompatible properties.