Synthesis and Characterization of Curcumin Incorporated Multi Component Nano-Scaffold with Enhanced Anti-bacterial and Wound Healing Properties

Background: Wound healing is one of the major challenges in chronic diseases; the current treatment options are less effective with undesirable side effects and are expensive. Extensive research is carried out to develop cost-effective, natural, biodegradable wound dressings that can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation and prevent bacterial infections. Curcumin has a plethora of therapeutic applications; however, its low solubility limits its clinical use. Objective: In this study, curcumin nanoparticles (Cur NP) and curcumin-chitosan nanoparticles (CCNP) were incorporated into the chitosan collagen vanillin scaffold, characterized, and investigated their potential wound healing properties. Methods: The nano-scaffolds were prepared by freeze-drying method and were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The drug release, antioxidant, antibacterial, and wound healing properties were assessed by in vitro assays. Results: Cur nano-scaffolds showed particle sizes of 195.9 nm and 110.6 nm for Cur NP+VC and CCNP+VC, respectively. The curcumin encapsulated in the Cur NP+VC and CC+VC nano-scaffolds showed a release profile of > 60% and an improved antioxidant activity of greater than 80%. The nanoscaffolds were antagonistic against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and enhanced wound healing capacity of 85.62 % and 77.05% in the murine cell line. Conclusion: The curcumin nano-scaffold is a biodegradable and effective drug delivery system for topical use that can act as an antioxidant, facilitate wound healing, as well as prevent bacterial infections.