Chitosan-Based Bioactive Glass Gauze: Microstructural Properties, In Vitro Bioactivity, and Biological Tests

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Passive wound dressings limit healing potential.
• Chitosan offers a biocompatible matrix but requires enhancement for optimal therapeutic effects.
• Bioactive glasses possess inherent properties beneficial for tissue regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop advanced chitosan-based wound dressings incorporating bioactive glasses.
• To evaluate the impact of different bioactive glass compositions on wound healing properties.
• To assess the efficacy of these composite dressings in promoting cell interactions and tissue repair.

Main Methods:

• Chitosan suspensions were impregnated with various bioactive glasses (45S5, Sr/Mg-containing, Zn-containing).
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed particle incorporation.
• Bioactivity was assessed using simulated body fluid (SBF) immersion.
• In vitro studies utilized NIH 3T3 cells to evaluate cell viability, proliferation (MTT assay), and morphology (Neutral Red uptake).
• Wound healing capacity was assessed via in vitro scratch assays.

Main Results:

• SEM and FTIR confirmed successful integration of bioactive glass particles into the chitosan matrix.
• Chitosan/bioactive glass dressings demonstrated enhanced bioactivity in SBF.
• Incorporation of bioactive glasses significantly improved NIH 3T3 cell viability, adhesion, and proliferation compared to pure chitosan.
• Scratch assays revealed accelerated wound healing rates with the addition of bioactive glasses.

Conclusions:

• Chitosan-based bioactive glass wound dressings effectively combine the benefits of chitosan and bioactive glasses.
• These composite dressings show superior performance in promoting cell proliferation and wound healing.
• The developed materials represent promising candidates for advanced wound healing devices.