Development of a Film-Forming Wound Dressing from Periplaneta americana Grease: Formulation, Characterization, and...

Background: Periplaneta americana grease (PAG), a lipid-rich fraction with documented wound-repair properties, remains challenging. This study aimed to develop a stable and patient-friendly film-forming agent (PAP) from PAG for topical wound management. Methods: The chemical profile of PAG was characterized with GC-MS. The formulation was optimized via single-factor and orthogonal experimental design. Comprehensive physicochemical characterization was performed. A vehicle control (film without PAG) was used to isolate PAG's bioactive effects. In vitro, antioxidant (DPPH/ABTS assays) and antibacterial activity were evaluated. In vivo efficacy was assessed using a murine full-thickness wound model (mice, 150 µL applied 3 times daily for 10 days), with bFGF and Kangfuxin solution as positive controls. Histological analysis was conducted on healed tissue. Results: GC-MS revealed PAG's complex composition, rich in sterols, terpenoids, and heterocyclic compounds. The optimized PAP formed a uniform, flexible film with suitable mechanical strength and shear-thinning rheology. PAP showed significant antioxidant activity and selective antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. In the wound model, PAP treatment significantly accelerated wound closure, achieving a 98.2% healing rate by day 10, comparable to positive controls and significantly superior to the vehicle control. Histology demonstrated enhanced re-epithelialization, reduced inflammation, and improved collagen organization. Conclusions: PAP was successfully formulated into a multifunctional film-forming agent that addresses key barriers to healing-infection, oxidative stress, and tissue regeneration. The results demonstrate its potential as an innovative therapeutic strategy for wound care.