Development of nanofibers containing Cynara scolymus L. extract

There is increasing interest in developing nanofiber membranes loaded with different types of plant extracts to meet the urgent need for wound dressings with natural sources and with high effectiveness. In this study, polyvinyl alcohol nanofiber membranes containing Cynara scolymus L. extract were developed in four concentrations by electrospinning technique. The morphology and chemical properties of the resulting nanofibers were identified using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. The antibacterial activity of PVA/CSL nanofibers has been proven on both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The antifungal activity has been proven on Candida albicans. In addition, the hydrophilicity and the antioxidant activity of these nanofibers has been determined by contact angle test and DPPH test respectively. The results showed high antioxidant activity and hydrophilic nature for the nanofiber membranes. The MTT assay was done to determine the cytotoxicity of PVA/CSL nanofibers on fibroblast cells and no cytotoxicity was found. All these findings enhance the possibility of using these nanofibers as an ideal wound dressing material.