Synthesis of L-arginine functionalized curcuminoid impregnated on bovine collagen-montmorillonite 3D scaffold for...

Biomaterial-based delivery systems incorporating plant-derived therapeutics have attracted significant attention for their potential in wound-healing applications. Researchers have extensively documented the therapeutic potential of curcumin; however, its poor solubility and stability limit its clinical use. In this study, we synthesised an L-arginine-functionalized curcuminoid (AFC) to enhance its aqueous solubility and stability. We thoroughly characterised AFC using a range of analytical techniques, including FTIR, NMR, ESI-MS, XRD, and XPS, to confirm its structure and properties. Solubility and stability tests performed in a physiological medium (PBS, pH 7.4) demonstrated that AFC exhibits improved aqueous behaviour compared to native curcumin. To create a sustained delivery platform for AFC, we fabricated a three-dimensional hybrid scaffold composed of bovine collagen and montmorillonite. XRD and AFM analyses confirmed that the polymer chains intercalated within the MMT galleries and modified the surface topography. SEM revealed a highly porous architecture. Additionally, TGA, DSC, and tensile testing showed enhanced thermal stability and mechanical reinforcement with increasing MMT content. Swelling and biodegradation studies indicated favourable water absorption and controlled degradation. AFC-loaded scaffolds exhibited significant antibacterial activity, promoted fibroblast proliferation, and facilitated cell migration. SEM and fluorescence microscopy confirmed increased cell attachment. In vivo wound-healing studies in rats indicated faster wound closure and greater collagen deposition, as demonstrated through H&E and Masson's trichrome staining. Immunostaining revealed altered NF-κB, Nrf2, and VEGF expression patterns associated with enhanced wound healing responses. L-arginine functionalization enhances curcumin performance, and its incorporation into a collagen-MMT scaffold provides mechanical strength, antibacterial activity, and improved wound healing.