Abstract
Our investigation for the first time explores the possibility of fabrication of a Capsaicin/polyurethane-based bioactive wound dressing. A micro/nanofibrous bandage was synthesized by electrospinning polyurethane supplemented with natural anti-inflammatory agent, Capsaicin. Herein, the best concentration (3%) of Capsaicin in polyurethane to get a consistent solution was standardized in order to acquire the composite micro/nanofibrous dressing. The as-spun bandage has been investigated by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and biocompatibility of muscle cells on the bioactive bandage was also examined. Free radical scavenging activity of the fabricated micro/nanofiber bandage was estimated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay. Inclusion of Capsaicin in polyurethane transformed the morphology as well as dimension of the fibers. Anti-oxidant wound bandage with diameters around 150-500 nm was fabricated by physical unification of polyurethane with natural Capsaicin. Here, polyurethane was used as a foundation polymer, which was blended with Capsaicin to attain desirable characteristics such as better anti-oxidant activity, hydrophilicity and excellent cell attachment. The polyurethane wound bandage possesses enlarged surface, proscribed evaporation, and fluid drainage ability. These results suggest the beneficial influence of antioxidant Capsaicin on wound repairing process. Therefore, a biologically active, natural compounds such as Capsaicin is material of choice for fabrication of future wound dressings.