Edaravone-Loaded Sodium Alginate/Carboxymethyl Chitosan Composite Flim for the Healing of Chronic Wound

Abstract

Abstract High levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the wound surface are one of the reasons why chronic wounds are difficult to heal. Using of free radical scavengers to reduce ROS levels and reduce the duration of toxic effects of ROS can accelerate the healing of chronic wounds. In this study, a novel edaravone (Ed)-loaded sodium alginate (SA)/carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) antioxidant composite film was prepared, and the physicochemical properties and biocompatibility were analyzed. The results indicated that the SA/CMCS/Ed films were hydrophilic, with excellent water absorption and water retention, and also exhibited adequate mechanical properties. The exploratory drug release investigation revealed that the increase in SA content plays a critical role in the Ed release process by improving the binding ability of the composite film to the drug, resulting in slow release. In addition, cell experiments confirmed that the SA/CMCS films with Ed content of 20% and 30% not only had no cytotoxicity, but also significantly promoted the cell viability of fibroblasts from oxidative stress injury induced by hydrogen peroxide. These preliminary results suggested that the Ed-loaded SA/CMCS composite film can be further used for the study of chronic wound dressings, which is expected to provide new ways for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers, lower extremity venous ulcers and arterial ulcers.