Evaluation of L929 cell morphology on anthocyanin-containing gelatin-based hydrogel for early detection of infection

Wounds heal through a complex process including four phases. Any interruption or interference in healing process can prevent wound healing. Infection is one of the most common complications preventing wounds from healing. In this study, we investigated the fibroblast cell morphology and behavior of a gelatin-based hydrogel containing anthocyanin to determine whether it can be used for early detection of infection. The experimental results ascertained that 6 h after culturing the fibroblasts, they could be well attached to the surface of the hydrogel, and 48 h after seeding, they were spread over the surface and connected with each other. After the addition of a low dose of anthocyanin, the vitality of the cell increased, and the results of the ATR-FTIR analysis showed that anthocyanin could eliminate remaining glutaraldehyde free radicals. Anthocyanin also could change its color after the addition of bacterial supernatant. Thus, hydrogels containing black carrot anthocyanin may be a potential therapeutic and diagnostic strategy to promote wound healing and early detection of infection.