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Pectin/Gellan Gum Hydrogels Loaded with Crocus sativus Tepal Extract for In Situ Modulation of Pro-Inflammatory
Francesco Busto1,2, Caterina Licini3, Stefania Cometa4
1Department of Chemistry, University of Bari, Via Orabona 4, 70126 Bari, Italy.
Polymers
|April 28, 2025
Summary
Saffron flower tepals, a bio-waste, were used to create antioxidant hydrogels for wound healing. These novel composite films promote skin regeneration and reduce agricultural waste.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Agricultural Science
Background:
- Tepals from Crocus sativus (saffron) flowers are abundant agricultural bio-waste.
- These tepals contain polyphenols with antioxidant properties, offering potential for pharmaceutical applications.
- Valorizing saffron tepals can create new income streams and reduce waste.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop composite hydrogels using pectin, gellan gum, and Crocus sativus tepal extract (CSE).
- To investigate the potential of these hydrogels for cutaneous wound regeneration and healing.
- To leverage the antioxidant properties of CSE for therapeutic benefits.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of composite hydrogels blending pectin and gellan gum with CSE.
- Physico-chemical and mechanical characterization of the hydrogels.
- Assessment of skin permeation using a Franz cell diffusion system.
- In vitro evaluation of cytocompatibility, antioxidant activity, matrix protein restoration, and wound closure promotion.
Main Results:
- The composite films demonstrated cytocompatibility.
- They effectively counteracted reactive oxygen species (ROS) increase.
- The films restored matrix protein production and promoted wound closure.
- Skin permeation studies confirmed the potential for CSE delivery.
Conclusions:
- CSE-loaded composite films are a promising strategy for promoting natural skin healing.
- This approach offers a sustainable method for developing treatments for skin diseases.
- Reusing saffron tepals effectively reduces agricultural bio-waste.
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