Lincomycin HCl-loaded nanoparticles: development, optimization, and incorporation into a nanogel for wound healing

The present study focused on developing and evaluating lincomycin HCl (LCH)-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) incorporated into a nanogel system to improve wound healing. CSNPs were prepared via ionic gelation using sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) as a cross-linker. The optimized formulation showed a mean particle size of 174.3 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.267, a zeta potential of +29.4 mV, and a drug entrapment efficiency of 83.7%. FTIR, DSC, and XRD analyses confirmed successful drug encapsulation and stability with no chemical interactions. The formulation demonstrated sustained release (>75% in 24 hours) following non-Fickian kinetics. Antibacterial testing revealed improved efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli with inhibition zones of 45 mm ± 2.76 and 38 mm ± 2.15, respectively. In vivo wound healing studies in rats demonstrated almost complete wound closure within 14 days in the treated group, compared to significantly slower healing in the control group. These results show that the LCH-CSNP nanogel provides controlled drug release, effective antimicrobial action, and accelerated wound healing, highlighting its potential as a topical therapeutic platform.