Synthesis and characterization of polymeric responsive CMC/Pectin hydrogel films loaded with Tamarix aphylla extract as potential wound dressings

Abstract

The fourth most predominant overwhelming type of trauma is burn injuries worldwide. Ideal wound healing dressings help in the wound healing process in a lower time with less pain. Commonly used dry wound dressing, like absorbent gauze or absorbent cotton, possess limited therapeutic effects and require repeated use, which further exaggerates patients’ suffering. In contrast, hydrogels films present a promising alternative to improve healing by guaranteeing a moisture balance at the wound site. The aim of the current study was to synthesize Tamarix aphylla (T. aphylla) extract-loaded hydrogel film with Na-CMC and pectin and to study their wound healing properties. The Na-CMC/Pectin hydrogels films were synthesized and characterized for HPLC analysis, FTIR, surface morphology, rheology, tensile strength, swelling behavior, drug release kinetics, and in vivo wound healing in an animal model. FTIR confirmed the existence of strong interaction between both polymers but no interaction with the extract. SEM photographs showed successful embedding of extract in small pores of hydrogel film and showed smooth and homogenous morphology. Rheological and texture profiles indicated that hydrogels behaved as strong gels. Swelling and erosion were dependent on the amount of the CMC. HPLC showed drug content of three selected formulation (A3, E3 and S3) as 85 ± 0.1%, 82.5 ± 0.4% and 80 ± 0.3%, respectively. The release of the drug from the hydrogel was controlled by a Fickian diffusion mechanism. In vivo wound healing activity of hydrogel film confirmed that T. aphylla extract successfully promoted healing rate by significantly reducing (P < 0.05) the size of wound closure compared to the control group, evidenced by intensive collagen formation in histopathological and biochemical analysis. The capability of these hydrogels for burn wounds could be valuable for medical uses as a new window of safe and effective medication.