Bilayer nanofibrous wound dressing prepared by electrospinning containing gallic acid and quercetin with improved biocompatibility, antibacterial, and antioxidant effects

ObjecteivesThe purpose of this study was to prepare an antibacterial, antioxidant, and biocompatible bilayer nanofibrous wound dressing by using electrospinning.MethodsThe micromorphology and bilayer structure characteristics of the GA-Qe-PVP-PCL nanofibers were analyzed by SEM. The physicochemical characteristics were analyzed by XRD and FTIR. The uptake, mechanical properties, water contact angle, water vapor transmission and in vitro drug release were evaluated. In addition, the effect of antibacterial, antioxidant and biocompatability of the nanofibers were evaluated, respectively.ResultsThe SEM results showed that the GA-Qe-PVP-PCL nanofibers had a smooth surface, no beading phenomenon, and a prominent bilayer structure. The diameter and porosity of the drug-loading layer and waterproof support layer of the nanofibers were 842 +/- 302 nm, 242 +/- 50 nm, and 88.56 +/- 1.67%, 94.49 +/- 1.57%, respectively. Moreover, the water uptake, mechanical properties, water contact angle, and water vapor transmission showed ideal performance. The results of in vitro drug release indicated that GA and Qe were both released rapidly, which was conducive to accelerating wound healing. The GA-Qe-PVP-PCL nanofibers exhibited antibacterial effects against both bacteria as well as high antioxidant activity. Additionally, the GA-Qe-PVP-PCL nanofibers possessed good compatibility, could promote the proliferation, adhesion, and migration of L929 fibroblast cells.ConclusionThe nanofibers we developed met the requirements of ideal materials for wound dressing, which makes the nanofibers the potential to be a wound dressing for wound care.