Co-electrospun nanofibers of gelatin and chitosan–polyvinyl alcohol–eugenol for wound dressing applications

Co-electrospun nanofibers of chitosan (CS), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and eugenol (E) in the core and with gelatin (G) in the shell were prepared and characterized. The content of 3% v/v E allowed the production of homogeneous nanofibers. FTIR and TGA were performed to validate the presence of the components in the nanofibers. The mechanical parameters (tensile strength, elastic modulus, and elongation at break) of the co-electrospun nanofibers were determined. Likewise, studies of antimicrobial activity of the co-electrospun nanofibers with E were performed against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes) and Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella Typhimurium). Co-electrospun nanofibers without E presented the best cell viability, with around 80% viability after 72 h of direct contact of the L929-fibroblasts with the nanofibers. The co-electrospun nanofibers of G and CS–PVA as polymeric matrix and phenolic compounds of E showed antibacterial effects, and these could be suitable components for wound dressings. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.].