Title : Development of bacterial cellulose based shape memory aerogels for biomedical applications
Abstract:
Wound management materials are highly advanced materials that enhance health outcomes in various settings. The high cost of such materials limits their wide-spread use, particularly among under privileged population. Therefore, developing low-cost biomaterials is crucial to reduce healthcare expenses, expanding access, and improving patient outcomes. Microbial invasion at the site of injury can pose a significant risk of infection, and as the microbes proliferate, they may lead to biofilm formation and impaired wound healing. Thus, significant consideration must be given when designing wound dressings, including features such as high exudate absorption capacity, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and infection resistance. Among various biopolymers, bacterial cellulose (BC), produced by the Gram-negative bacteria Acetobacter xylinum, holds its pivotal significance due to its natural nanofibrous structure, mechanically robust nature, purity, and high-water retention. Therefore, present study was undertaken to prepare BC pellicle by simple and facile approach of aerobic fermentation in the presence of symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). Prepared pellicles were washed to remove adhered bacterial cells and oven dried at 60ºC for 24 h. Various reaction parameters such as time of fermentation, pH, and temperature were optimized for the yield. FTIR studies of pellicle was carried out to confirm the presence of characteristic functional groups. XRD analysis was employed for the assessment of crystallinity whereas, SEM revealed the surface morphology of nanofibrous structure of size range 20-50 nm. Swelling analysis revealed more than 900% water retention capacity of the pellicle. To incorporate antimicrobial properties, BC pellicle was functionalized by adding herbal extract. Zone of inhibition and colony count method was carried out which indicated more than 80% of viable colony reduction against S. aureus and E. coli. This study implicated that BC can be transformed into a multifunctional sustainable material that combats infection for various healthcare applications.
