ROS-releasing PVA sub-micron antimicrobial dressing with enhanced aqueous stability and mechanical properties

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a biocompatible nanofibrous mesh for wound healing applications that is stable in aqueous environments. The mesh was produced by electrospinning RO-101-loaded polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibres and crosslinking them using glutaraldehyde (GA) vapour exposure. RO-101™ is a wound gel that produces therapeutic levels of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). The results of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed successful incorporation of RO-101 wound gel and crosslinking of the mesh, with average fibre diameters of 400 nm. The vapour crosslinking process resulted in enhanced mechanical strength and flexibility, improved aqueous stability, and an increase in contact angle compared to the uncrosslinked mesh whilst maintaining hydrophilicity. The vapour-crosslinked mesh also demonstrated sustained release of H₂O₂ at similar concentrations (1103 ± 199 μM g⁻¹ mL⁻¹) to the uncrosslinked mesh, but with a more gradual release. The developed mesh showed antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and its released H₂O₂ presented no cytotoxicity in human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) metabolic activity. Overall, the developed mesh has potential for wound healing applications, providing a barrier against infection and promoting tissue regeneration.