Synthesis and Characterization of Cyclodextrin-Based Scaffold Incorporating Ciprofloxacin Antibacterial Agent for Skin Infection Prevention

Abstract

The treatment of skin infections is one of the most challenging conditions in these days. Clinically most health professionals recommend the antibiotics; however, their efficiency is questionable due to their side effects, as well as their drug delivery capabilities. This work focuses on the noninvasive skin application of the Ciprofloxacin HCL (CFx)-loaded β-Cyclodextrin composite to suppress the antibacterial infections. Silk fibroins are used to enhance the mechanical properties, sodium alginate for dressing properties, while citric acid has been used as a linking agent. Combination of these forms a green composite, which is biocompatible and demonstrates better controlled drug-releasing properties. Four composites are made with different ratios of biocomponents. The composites are characterized by different characterization methods including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electron-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) to observe the surface and chemical properties of the composite scaffold. The antibacterial effect of the scaffold was observed through the agar diffusion test method. The results demonstrated that higher the ratio of β-Cyclodextrin, the larger will be the inhibition zone while other materials have limited to no effect of inhibition zone. The characterization tests show a successful bonding and loading of the CFx in the composite. Therefore, β-Cyclodextrin-based green composite scaffolds could be a promising candidate for wound dressing applications with low side effects.