Development and evaluation of Alkanna tinctoria root extract and mupirocin nanoparticles-loaded porous films for the burn wound management.

This study aimed to fabricate and evaluate chitosan-polymethacrylic acid polyelectrolyte complex (CSPMA-PEC) porous films incorporating nanoparticles of Mupirocin and Alkanna tinctoria root extract for the management of burn wound. ATR-FTIR and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) confirmed formulation component compatibility and thermal stability up to 150 °C. The CSPMA-PEC films exhibited a highly porous, interconnected structure (mean pore size 66 μm and 71.2% porosity), controlled biodegradation (42.3%) over 30 days, and suitable mechanical properties for handling and application (tensile strength 0.98 ± 0.3 MPa and % elongation 31.52 ± 2.1%). High swelling index (1275%) and water retention capacity (893.33%), indicated excellent hydrophilicity and moisture-holding capacity, supporting a moist wound environment and wound healing. In vitro studies demonstrated sustained release of Mupirocin and Alkanna tinctoria over a 24 h period, best described by the Korsmeyer-Peppas model (non-Fickian transport). Stability assessments under ICH guidelines showed no significant changes in drug content or its visual appearance. Dermal toxicity studies in rats revealed no evidence of irritation or systemic adverse effects. CSPMA-AT-MU-NPs films showed excellent antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (33.57 ± 0.01 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (33.78 ± 0.21 mm), Candida albicans (30.02 ± 0.13 mm) and Escherichia coli (26.17 ± 0.04 mm), compared to single-drug-loaded films. In vivo burn models in rats demonstrated accelerated wound contraction in the CSPMA-AT-MU-NPs film-treated animals compared with controls and silver sulfadiazine cream, confirmed by analyses showing improved collagen deposition, reduced inflammation and enhanced proliferation of fibroblasts. Overall, CSPMA-based porous films co-loaded with Alkanna tinctoria and Mupirocin nanoparticles represent a promising biocompatible platform for sustained drug delivery, robust antimicrobial effectiveness and tissue regeneration in burn wound management.