Antibacterial Wound Dressing Using Gamma-Irradiated PVP-Carrageenan Hydrogel Blend with Silver Nanoparticles

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Burns are the leading cause of morbidity prolonging hospitalization, disability and disfigurement (WHO). It is a global health problem, estimating 180,000 deaths per year. Wounds can be acute, traumatic, or chronic, it can become infected and slow the healing process. With this, the researchers proposed to develop an antibacterial gamma-irradiated hydrogel wound dressing using PVP-Carrageenan hydrogel blend synthesized with Silver Nanoparticles to be temporarily used as an instant medicinal application on the skin to prevent further infection and risks. This project also aimed to develop the currently available hydrogel wound dressing which lack an antibacterial property.

METHODS

The researchers prepared the hydrogels by using a tantamount of 6% Polyvinyl-Pyrrolidone (PVP), 1.5% Kappa-Carrageenan (KC), 2.5% Polyethylene Glycol (PEG), and Silver Nitrate (AgNO3) solutions of different concentrations (1000 ppm and 1500 ppm). The AgNO3 solution mixed with PVP and KC were left overnight, afterwards PEG was added along with the final volume. The hydrogels were then gamma-irradiated to allow for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles and underwent the Disk Diffusion Method to test its effectivity against gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and gram-negative Escherichia coli.

RESULTS

Both concentrations of 1500 ppm and 1000 ppm were proven effective in its inhibitory activity, completely inhibiting the growth of the harmful organisms, both the gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. These samples also proved to have a mild to moderate reactivity rating with the 1000 ppm concentration sample having the Moderate reactivity rating which proved that the samples are extensive in its inhibitory activity not only in the covered wound but also 5-10 mm outside the affected area to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Overall, the antibacterial wound dressing lives up to its name and proves to be an effective wound dressing.

DISCUSSIONS

The results showed that the Silver Nanoparticles added to the hydrogel blend makes for an effective antibacterial hydrogel wound dressing. The researchers also suggested to future researchers that: (1) The use of other materials (iota-carrageenan, carboxymethylcellulose, chitosan, etc.) be explored, and (2) the hydrogel blends be characterized in its mechanical properties.