Multifunctional polymeric nanofibrous scaffolds enriched with azilsartan medoxomil for enhanced wound healing

• DOI: 10.1007/s13346-024-01637-3
• Publication Date: 2024-06-04T12:15:29Z
• Authors: Alka; Nidhi Mishra; Priya Singh; Neelu Singh; Kalpana Rathore; Vivek Verma; Sheel Ratna; Raquibun Nisha; Abhishek Verma; Shubhini A. Saraf

A prolonged and compromised wound healing process poses a significant clinical challenge, necessitating innovative solutions. This research investigates the potential application of nanotechnology-based formulations, specifically nanofiber (NF) scaffolds, in addressing this issue. The study focuses on the development and characterization of multifunctional nanofibrous scaffolds (AZL-CS/PVA-NF) composed of azilsartan medoxomil (AZL) enriched chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol (CS/PVA) through electrospinning. The scaffolds underwent comprehensive characterization both in vitro and in vivo. The mean diameter and tensile strength of AZL-CS/PVA-NF were determined to be 240.42 ± 3.55 nm and 18.05 ± 1.18 MPa, respectively. A notable drug release rate of 93.86 ± 2.04%, was observed from AZL-CS/PVA-NF over 48 h at pH 7.4. Moreover, AZL-CS/PVA-NF exhibited potent antimicrobial efficacy for Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The expression levels of Akt and CD31 were significantly elevated, while Stat3 showed a decrease, indicating a heightened tissue regeneration rate with AZL-CS/PVA-NF compared to other treatment groups. In vivo ELISA findings revealed reduced inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α) within treated skin tissue, implying a beneficial effect on injury repair. The comprehensive findings of the present endeavour underscore the superior wound healing activity of the developed AZL-CS/PVA-NF scaffolds in a Wistar rat full-thickness excision wound model. This indicates their potential as novel carriers for drugs and dressings in the field of wound care.