Development of bioactive chitosan patch with ciprofloxacin loaded TiO₂ nanoparticles for wound healing application

Different cellular mechanisms and functions drive the intricate process of skin wound healing. Because they interfere with the body's natural healing processes, microbial infections provide a serious obstacle to wound healing. To get over these challenges, this study offers a transdermal patch made of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (Cs). PVA improves mechanical strength and flexibility, while chitosan's haemostatic qualities aid in wound healing and tissue regeneration. Strong antibiotic ciprofloxacin (Ciprox) and hydrothermally produced titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles were used to functionalise the patch. TiO₂ generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) by photocatalytic process and inhibits bacterial growth. To increase biocompatibility and drug stability, a TiO₂/Ciprox nanocomposite was made and coated with polyethylene glycol (PEG), which resulted in a 71 % drug loading efficiency. FTIR, SEM, swelling investigations, and porosity measurements were used to characterize the Cs/PVA patch embedded with TiO₂/Ciprox nanocomposites. Significant microbial suppression was shown by antibacterial tests, and in vitro research verified regulated medication release with efficient release kinetics. As demonstrated by cell viability tests, the patch promotes the proliferation of NIH3T3 fibroblast cells, demonstrating its biocompatibility and potential to aid in tissue repair. The scratch assay has the potential to accelerate wound healing and support tissue regeneration. This patch combines regulated medication administration, mechanical strength, and antibacterial action to offer a viable treatment option for non-healing wounds.