NUST Institutions Library Catalogue

Nano-based wound dressings, with improved features such as controlled release of therapeutic
drug and increased antibacterial activity, play a significant role in supporting efficient and fast
wound healing. This research describes a unique method for creating a polymeric wound
dressing material to address the problems of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) infection. The research
focuses on introducing ciprofloxacin-loaded gold nanoparticles (CIP-AuNPs) into the dressing
material using gum tragacanth (GT) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Ultraviolet-Visible
spectrophotometry (UV), Fourier transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron
Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Contact Angle
Measurement, and Mechanical Test were used to characterize the fabricated membranes
Biocompatibility, Drug Release Efficiency, and Antibacterial Efficacy against E. coli were all
investigated. In Vitro results showed the effective synthesis of CIP-AuNPs as well as the
improved mechanical characteristics of the membranes. The CIP-loaded membrane demonstrated
low cytotoxicity and prolonged ciprofloxacin release. The antibacterial activity of the CIP-loaded
membrane was substantial. In vivo testing on rat model showed the valuable and efficient results
of CIP-loaded membrane on wound healing and potential for the clinical trials. This research
suggests a viable wound dressing material for the treatment of DFUs.