Chitosan Film Properties with Spearmint Oil for Wound Dressings

Jim Crocker
23rd August, 2024

Chitosan Film Properties with Spearmint Oil for Wound Dressings

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • The study by the University of Tlemcen, Algeria, evaluated chitosan-based films as antibacterial wound dressings
  • High molar mass chitosan films absorbed well, making them suitable for absorbent dressings
  • Plasticized chitosan films were thicker, more water-permeable, and had enhanced antibacterial activity, ideal for moist wound healing and infection prevention
Wound healing is a critical biological process that ensures the restoration of damaged tissue through several stages: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling[2]. Traditional wound dressings, such as polymeric films, have been widely used due to their biocompatibility, ease of application, and ability to facilitate gas exchange[2]. However, the search for more advanced wound dressings continues, driven by the need to optimize healing, reduce infection risks, and improve patient comfort. A recent study conducted by the University of Tlemcen, Algeria, has made significant strides in this area by evaluating the potential of chitosan-based films as antibacterial wound dressings[1]. Chitosan, derived from chitin found in the shells of crustaceans, is known for its biocompatibility and biodegradability, making it an attractive material for medical applications[3]. The study focused on the effects of the molar mass of chitosan (MM) and the acids used in film casting on the properties of both unplasticized and plasticized chitosan films. The researchers prepared various chitosan films and characterized them based on several parameters, including thickness, density, swelling behavior, water vapor barrier properties, mechanical strength, and antibacterial efficacy. They found that all chitosan films were thinner than the human dermis, with lactic acid producing denser and thicker films compared to other acids. This is a crucial finding as the thickness and density of wound dressings can influence their protective and moisture-retentive properties[4]. One of the key findings was that high molar mass (HMM) chitosan films exhibited superior absorbent properties, making them suitable for use as absorbent dressings. Additionally, unplasticized HMM lactate (HMM-LA) films demonstrated lower stiffness and higher strain at break compared to acetate films, attributed to the residual plasticizing effect of lactic acid as indicated by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis. This flexibility is essential for dressings that need to conform to the wound site without causing discomfort or further injury. The antibacterial properties of the films were also noteworthy. The HMM-LA films showed substantial antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, common bacteria involved in wound infections. This aligns with the findings from previous studies that highlight the importance of antibacterial features in modern wound dressings to reduce infection risks and promote faster healing[3]. Furthermore, the study explored the impact of incorporating plasticizers, specifically MSO (a type of plasticizer), into the chitosan films. The plasticized chitosan films were thicker and more permeable to water than their unplasticized counterparts, which could be beneficial for wounds requiring a higher moisture level to heal effectively. The addition of MSO also significantly enhanced the antibacterial activity of the chitosan films, making them even more effective in preventing infections. The findings of this study are promising for the development of advanced wound dressings. The plasticized HMM-LA/MSO chitosan films showed good swelling behavior, adequate water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), suitable mechanical properties, and strong antibacterial performance. These characteristics suggest that such films could serve as effective antibacterial dressings for moderately exuding wounds, offering a combination of moisture management, mechanical support, and infection control[4]. In conclusion, the study conducted by the University of Tlemcen provides valuable insights into the potential of chitosan-based films as advanced wound dressings. By optimizing the molar mass of chitosan and incorporating plasticizers like MSO, researchers have developed films that not only meet the essential criteria for wound dressings but also offer enhanced antibacterial properties. This research builds on previous findings and contributes to the ongoing efforts to improve wound care through innovative material science.

MedicineHealthBiotech

References

Main Study

1) Effect of the molar mass of chitosan and film casting solvents on the properties of chitosan films loaded with Mentha spicata essential oil for potential application as wound dressing.

Published 21st August, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1080/09205063.2024.2390752

Related Studies

2) Films for Wound Healing Fabricated Using a Solvent Casting Technique.

https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15071914

3) Biomedical materials for wound dressing: recent advances and applications.

https://doi.org/10.1039/d2ra07673j

4) Commercial wound dressings for the treatment of exuding wounds: an in-depth physico-chemical comparative study.

https://doi.org/10.1093/burnst/tkac024


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