Evaluation of biomaterial containing regenerated cellulose and chitosan incorporated with silver nanoparticles

Biomaterials are used in regenerative medicine, implantable materials, controlled release carriers or scaffolds for tissue engineering. In the present study, the composites containing regenerated cellulose (RC) and chitosan (Ch) impregnated with silver nanoparticles (AgNP) with and without antibiotic gentamicin (G) were prepared. The composites prepared were characterized for their physico-chemical and mechanical properties and the results have shown the composite nature. RC-Ch-Ag and RC-Ch-Ag-G composites were used as wound dressing materials in experimental wounds of rats. The healing pattern of the wounds was evaluated by planimetric studies, macroscopic observations, biochemical studies and mechanical properties. The results have shown faster healing pattern in the wounds treated with RC-Ch-Ag and RC-Ch-Ag-G composites compared to untreated control. This study revealed that RC-Ch-Ag composite might be a potential, economical wound dressing material and may be tried on the clinical wounds of animals before being applied on humans.