Nomination for-Electrosprayed Thin Films of Multifunctional Melanin Nanoparticles for Photoprotective and Antioxidant...

Melanin is an organic dark pigment that is naturally produced in mammalian epithelial tissues, as well as in certain bacterial and fungal species. This study investigates the creation of multifunctional thin films using melanin nanoparticles (MNPs), focusing on their photoprotective and antioxidant capabilities. The MNPs were synthesized via spontaneous oxidation of dopamine hydrochloride, followed by freeze-drying to produce a dry powder. This powder was then combined with polyvinyl alcohol and electrosprayed onto glass substrates to form thin films for four intervals (2, 4, 12, and 16 minutes). These films were characterized using spectroscopic and microscopic methods, confirming their uniformity and melanin-like composition. The films exhibited strong photoprotective properties against UV radiation and significant antioxidant activity, indicating their potential for various applications including protective coatings and biomedical devices. The study highlights the utility of MNPs as a versatile, bioinspired material, offering insights into their potential for advancing technology in fields requiring radiation shielding and oxidative stress mitigation.