Elucidating the Potential of <scp>MgO</scp> Nanoparticles Infused Into Polymer Membrane for Wound Alleviation

ABSTRACT Wounds become infected when bacteria or other microorganisms colonize the site, leading to delayed healing or further complications. In this study, nanocomposite membranes were fabricated by integrating synthesized magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles into a chitosan/poly(vinyl alcohol) (Cs/PVA) matrix through the solvent casting method. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the spherical morphology of the magnesium oxide nanoparticles, with an average size of 45 nm. The fabricated pristine and MgO‐incorporated Cs/PVA membranes were characterized structurally and morphologically. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the uniform dispersion of nanoparticles, whereas thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) demonstrated enhanced thermal stability. The MgO‐incorporated Cs/PVA (CPM1.5) membrane exhibited the highest tensile strength (TS) (31.37 MPa) compared to the pure Cs/PVA membrane. Hemocompatibility studies revealed low erythrocyte hemolysis (1.72%–3.78%), validating the membrane's suitability for wound healing applications. Biological assessments, including the MTT assay, confirmed that the polymer matrix is noncytotoxic to NIH3T3 fibroblast cells. Antibacterial tests showed significant action against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus , highlighting its potential as an effective antibacterial agent. Furthermore, an in vitro wound scratch assay demonstrated enhanced fibroblast proliferation, with a wound closure rate of 93% within 48 h. These findings suggest that the nanocomposite membrane holds significant potential as an effective wound dressing material, capable of minimizing infections and promoting healing.