In a groundbreaking development that could revolutionize wound care, researchers have successfully fabricated multifunctional nanofiber mats using a unique combination of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), fish skin gelatin (FSG), and Hypericum perforatum oil (HPO). This innovative approach, detailed in a recent study published in *Macromolecular Materials and Engineering* (translated to English as *Macromolecular Materials and Engineering*), opens new avenues for advanced wound dressing applications.
The research, led by Rüya Keskinkaya from the Program of Chemical Engineering at Istanbul Technical University, employs the emulsion electrospinning technique to create nanofiber mats with remarkable properties. “The combination of TPU, FSG, and HPO not only mimics the native extracellular matrix but also enhances wound healing and exhibits antibacterial properties,” Keskinkaya explained.
Scanning electron microscope (SEM) investigations revealed that the average diameters of the defect-free TPU nanofiber mats, with diverse HPO concentrations, range from approximately 400 to 500 nanometers. This size is ideal for mimicking the native extracellular matrix (ECM), a crucial factor for effective wound healing.
One of the most significant findings of the study is the antibacterial activity observed in the nanofiber mats. While the control TPU mat showed no antibacterial activity, the addition of a tannic acid crosslinker and 12% HPO resulted in a 31.3% inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and a 21.0% inhibition against Escherichia coli. “This dual functionality—enhancing wound healing while providing antibacterial protection—makes these nanofiber mats a promising candidate for wound dressing applications,” Keskinkaya noted.
The study also demonstrated that the TPU nanofiber mat with the highest HPO concentration (12%) was non-toxic to cells and promoted healing in vitro assays. This non-toxicity is a critical factor for medical applications, ensuring that the material does not harm the surrounding tissue while facilitating the healing process.
The commercial implications of this research are substantial. The development of multifunctional nanofiber mats that can mimic the ECM and provide antibacterial protection could lead to advanced wound care products that are more effective and safer for patients. This innovation could particularly benefit the medical and healthcare sectors, offering new solutions for chronic wounds, surgical incisions, and burn treatments.
Moreover, the use of fish skin gelatin, a sustainable and eco-friendly material, aligns with the growing trend towards green and sustainable materials in the medical industry. This aspect not only enhances the environmental profile of the product but also opens up new avenues for research and development in sustainable biomaterials.
As the field of wound care continues to evolve, the integration of advanced materials like these nanofiber mats could redefine the standards of care. The research led by Keskinkaya and her team at Istanbul Technical University represents a significant step forward in this direction, paving the way for future developments in medical technology and patient care.
In summary, the study published in *Macromolecular Materials and Engineering* highlights the potential of combining TPU, FSG, and HPO to create multifunctional nanofiber mats with enhanced wound healing and antibacterial properties. This innovative approach could shape the future of wound care, offering new solutions that are both effective and sustainable.