Construction of aloevera-loaded nanofibers based on Zein/collagen/PCL for wound healing: an in vitro study

Due to the high rate of skin lesions, the need for skin replacements tailored to the type of wound is essential. These factors have provided the basis for extensive research into the introduction of new skin products to treat these skin injuries. In this study, nanofibers have been introduced as a novel compound for the treatment of skin lesions. Our goal was to modify the composition of nanofibers to achieve the properties needed to repair deep and superficial skin lesions.The nanofibers are expected to be made of zein / collagen / poly caprolactone, have a skin-like structure and have a good biodegradability. The use of relatively inexpensive materials that are commercially available and the electrification method as the most common and cost-effective method of nanofibers production will be another achievement of this research. Interestingly, only by altering the composition of cellulose nanocrystalline to fiber reinforcing properties can these nanofibers be used as dressing for superficial wounds or scaffolds for deep wound healing. Skin lesions are divided into two major categories of superficial and deep lesions; in superficial lesions, only the epidermis layer is damaged, whereas in deep skin lesions, in addition to the epidermis, the dermis layer is also damaged. Choosing the right structure to treat each of these injuries is crucial. In the healing process of both types of scars, exudate absorption (purulent discharge), oxygen permeability and moisture control are among the essential features of skin replacement used. Despite these similar requirements, alternative skin adhesion properties vary depending on the intended use. In the treatment of superficial injuries, the dressing used should be easily replaceable without damage to the healing tissue and should therefore not adhere to the wound surface. In contrast, skin substitutes used as scaffolds for tissue engineering of deep skin lesions should provide a suitable base for attachment, adhesion and proliferation of cells in the dermis layer of the skin and self-destruct. The nanofibers prepared by dimensional and structural simulation of the natural extracellular matrix enable optimal interaction with the cells. It also provides porosity in the nanofibers structure, transporting nutrients to cells and excreting cellular waste, which are key factors in the success of tissue engineering technology in repairing damaged tissue.