Core-shell nanofiber dressings with zinc oxide nanoparticles and cell-free fat extract: boosting fibroblast activity and antibacterial efficacy

Abstract Background This study presents the development and characterization of innovative core-shell nanofiber wound dressings incorporating zinc oxide nanoparticles (nZnO) and cell-free fat extract (CEFFE) to enhance fibroblast activity and antibacterial efficacy. Results CEFFE was prepared and an...

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Main Authors: Aydin Mahmoudnezhad, Mahsa Bayrami, Mahdiyeh Saadati, Yavuz Nuri Ertaş, Mozhgan Abasi, Aylar Ebrahimi, Younes Pilehvar
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2025-05-01
Series:Journal of Biological Engineering
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Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1186/s13036-025-00511-1
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Summary:Abstract Background This study presents the development and characterization of innovative core-shell nanofiber wound dressings incorporating zinc oxide nanoparticles (nZnO) and cell-free fat extract (CEFFE) to enhance fibroblast activity and antibacterial efficacy. Results CEFFE was prepared and analyzed, revealing high concentrations of essential growth factors, particularly bFGF and TGF-β1, supporting its therapeutic potential in tissue regeneration. The fabricated nanofibers (PLCL, nZnO/PLCL, PLCL-CEFFE/HA, and nZnO/PLCL-CEFFE/HA) were examined using FE-SEM and TEM, demonstrating successful encapsulation and morphological variations due to nZnO incorporation. XRD analysis confirmed the structural integrity and effective loading of nZnO and CEFFE. Hydrophilicity assessment via water contact angle measurements showed that CEFFE/HA significantly enhanced the hydrophilicity of PLCL membranes, crucial for wound exudate management. Mechanical tests indicated that CEFFE/HA addition maintained the scaffold’s mechanical robustness, while nZnO slightly reduced mechanical properties. In vitro release studies revealed a biphasic release pattern of Zn²⁺ ions and growth factors from nZnO/PLCL-CEFFE/HA nanofibers, ensuring prolonged antibacterial activity and sustained therapeutic effects. Antibacterial assays demonstrated significant efficacy against E. coli and S. aureus, attributed to nZnO. MTT assays and FE-SEM analysis confirmed enhanced NIH-3T3 cell proliferation and adhesion on PLCL-CEFFE/HA nanofibers due to the controlled release of growth factors. The scratch assay showed superior cell migration and wound healing potential for PLCL-CEFFE/HA formulations. Conclusions These findings underscore the potential of nZnO/PLCL-CEFFE/HA core-shell nanofibers as multifunctional wound dressings, combining antibacterial properties with enhanced tissue regeneration capabilities. However, further studies are needed to assess long-term stability and in vivo performance, which represent key challenges for future research.
ISSN:1754-1611